How does the verb encroach differ from other similar words?
Some common synonyms of encroach are infringe, invade, and trespass. While all these words mean "to make inroads upon the property, territory, or rights of another," encroach suggests gradual or stealthy entrance upon another's territory or usurpation of another's rights or possessions.
the encroaching settlers displacing the native peoples
Where would infringe be a reasonable alternative to encroach?
The words infringe and encroach are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, infringe implies an encroachment clearly violating a right or prerogative.
infringing a copyright
When can invade be used instead of encroach?
The words invade and encroach can be used in similar contexts, but invade implies a hostile and injurious entry into the territory or sphere of another.
accused of invading their privacy
When could trespass be used to replace encroach?
While the synonyms trespass and encroach are close in meaning, trespass implies an unwarranted or unlawful intrusion.
hunters trespassing on farmland
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of encroachBogard ventured to Chile to see how light pollution is encroaching on astronomy and changing our sense of place in the universe, perhaps irrevocably.—IEEE Spectrum, 1 Oct. 2025 In fact, Riley said Black Mountain would allow a portion of one of the parks to encroach on its property.—Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Sep. 2025 In fact, many fans believe Walt Disney kept newspapers and television sets out of his parks so that guests could be fully immersed in a fantastical world, without reality or politics encroaching.—Natasha Chen, CNN Money, 25 Sep. 2025 Are other people’s money problems encroaching on your bottom line?—Usa Today, USA Today, 17 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for encroach
An enemy may have invaded your beautiful, green lawn, leaving it ugly and brown.
—
Mary Marlowe Leverette,
Southern Living,
14 Oct. 2025
Boaters anchoring near Karlton’s home on Sunset Lake were invading his privacy, Karlton told the Herald at the time, saying the liveaboards could see into his windows and would sometimes come onto his property.
Debates have raged in the busy industry program, standby ticket queues have snaked outside venues for the hottest premieres and the stars — in their droves — have been out in force and on major charm offensives, with distributors using the fest to launch both awards and release campaigns.
—
Alex Ritman,
Variety,
17 Oct. 2025
The campers and counselors died after torrential rain forced water levels on the river, which snakes through multiple summer camps in the region, to rise from 3 feet to 30 feet in a matter of hours.
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