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
• intrude
• sneak
• infringe
• entrench
• overrun
• overstep
• 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

With millions of annual pass holders and a major funding stream at stake, the lawsuit raises wider questions about whether presidential branding is encroaching on public resources and whether national parks remain equally welcoming and representative of all Americans. —Robert Alexander, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2025

Lucah's second tooth had encroached, blocking the path for his right front tooth, which remains recessed in his gums, his mother said. —Beth Warren, Nashville Tennessean, 8 Dec. 2025

Opponents, meanwhile, have called the hunt cruel, unnecessary and an excuse for hunters to bag a trophy animal when the real issue is the ever-growing human population encroaching on bear habitat. —CBS News, 6 Dec. 2025

Cloud Dancer, a white that is both warm and cool, reflects an overwhelmed feeling among consumers as the world feels louder and technology, in particular AI, encroaches further into our lives. —Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 4 Dec. 2025

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!