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

Amazon has been increasingly encroaching on Walmart’s turf, even as Walmart bolsters its e-commerce operations, signaling its intent to further expand its physical footprint and grocery offerings. —Bloomberg, Oc Register, 16 Jan. 2026

And now a new study finds that when humans encroach on wild places, these insects may develop a special taste for human blood above all other food sources. —Jackie Flynn Mogensen, Scientific American, 15 Jan. 2026

Trimming encroaching ivy protects fences, trees, and property by preventing rot, storm damage, and moisture buildup that attracts pests. —Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 14 Jan. 2026

Acura sold 30,235 of them last year, with the cheaper, new-for-2025 Acura ADX likely encroaching on its turf. —Adam Ismail, The Drive, 14 Jan. 2026

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