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 encroachAn encroaching fog is disrupting the ferry schedule.—Ben Travers, IndieWire, 29 Apr. 2026 However, over the last decade, a group of challengers have encroached on OpenTable’s turf—particularly Resy, which was acquired by American Express in 2019 and is known for its partnerships with buzzy restaurants.—Time Contributors, Time, 28 Apr. 2026 Space can also prove an issue, because some school administrators see even tiny gardens in 5-gallon buckets as encroaching on their schools’ playgrounds.—Shelley Mitchell, The Conversation, 23 Apr. 2026 Songs here that start off surprisingly bracing resolve into big, sleek choruses, the work of firm believers in the power of heroic, high-protein mainstream alt-rock as a salve against encroaching darkness.—Jon Dolan, Rolling Stone, 22 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for encroach
Some have questioned whether the Biennale really is a nonpartisan exhibition, pointing to the show’s history of making political statements, including in 2022, when Russia invaded Ukraine.
—
Alex Greenberger,
ARTnews.com,
9 May 2026
Usually, the solution to getting rid of these pests is using synthetic chemicals or traps, but there's actually a completely natural way to deter mice from invading your property and landscape.
The barely-there gown featured a nude bodice with black lace and black gems snaking along the collar, down the center, along her sleeves and onto her hands.
—
Sophie Dodd,
PEOPLE,
4 May 2026
The dirt-only diamond was loamy and soft and home plate was totally submerged in a muddy puddle, a tributary of which also snaked down the third-base line.