Synonyms of infringe

infringe

verb

1

as in to violate

Related Words

• violate
• breach
• trespass
• offend
• transgress
• err
• wander
• fall
• sin
• stray
• break
• lapse
• backslide
• mess up

Dissimilar Words

• justify
• forgive
• pardon
• regret
• repent
• rue

2

as in to impinge

Related Words

• impinge
• invade
• intrude
• entrench
• intrench
• sneak
• encroach
• snake
• overstep
• overrun
• overshoot
• overreach
• worm
• creep
• inch
• overpass

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb infringe differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of infringe are encroach, invade, and trespass. While all these words mean "to make inroads upon the property, territory, or rights of another," infringe implies an encroachment clearly violating a right or prerogative.

infringing a copyright

When is it sensible to use encroach instead of infringe?

In some situations, the words encroach and infringe are roughly equivalent. However, 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

When can invade be used instead of infringe?

While in some cases nearly identical to infringe, invade implies a hostile and injurious entry into the territory or sphere of another.

accused of invading their privacy

When might trespass be a better fit than infringe?

The synonyms trespass and infringe are sometimes interchangeable, but trespass implies an unwarranted or unlawful intrusion.

hunters trespassing on farmland

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of infringe

An exhibit to the complaint lists more than 150 works that were allegedly infringed — meaning damages from the lawsuit, if Disney and Universal win, could top $20 million. —Clare Duffy, CNN Money, 11 June 2025

Lauren Gaw alleges that UnitedHealth Group, which owns the local surgery center through a series of subsidiaries, violated several California laws prohibiting employers from infringing on their employees’ political views and activities. —Alex Riggins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 June 2025

Neely’s company has challenged AI platforms for generating content that allegedly infringes on its clients’ intellectual property, both individual and corporate. —Zach Vallese, CNBC, 19 June 2025

There is no way to have a national police force empowered to conduct arrests without explanation that doesn’t infringe on everyone’s rights and our basic legal protections. —New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 18 June 2025