Synonyms of encroach

encroach

verb

in-ˈkrōch 

as in to invade

to advance gradually beyond the usual or desirable limits

each year the sea continues to encroach upon the island's beaches

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Synonym Chooser

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

Recent Examples of encroach

The state, the thinking went, should not encroach on the natural order produced by the churning of free-market forces. —Jennifer M. Harris, Foreign Affairs, 22 Apr. 2025

Apple once owned the premium device space, but competitors are now encroaching on its turf. —Jackie Snow, Quartz, 7 June 2025

At this year’s Cannes Film Festival, the industry was awash with buyers, sellers and festival heads chattering about how to come to grips with this new phase of technology that is increasingly encroaching on the traditional space. —Diana Lodderhose, Deadline, 4 June 2025

Cities vehemently opposed the bill, saying the changes would encroach on their ability to deal with crimes specific to their areas. —Sam Tabachnik, Denver Post, 16 May 2025

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