Breach: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to breaking a law, agreement, or rule. It often has legal implications and is common in formal and official contexts.

• The company was sued for breach of contract.
• Any breach of the peace will be dealt with severely.

A general term that applies to breaking laws, rules, or agreements. It can be used in a variety of contexts, both formal and informal. Often implies a negative connotation.

• Her actions were a clear violation of company policy.
• Environmental violations could lead to severe penalties.

Typically used to denote minor offenses or violations, especially related to rules or laws. It is relatively less severe compared to 'breach' and often used in legal and formal contexts.

• The traffic infraction resulted in a small fine.
• Students were reprimanded for infractions of school policies.

Conveys a moral or ethical violation, often used in religious or philosophical settings. It implies a serious breach of moral or ethical codes.

• He asked for forgiveness for his transgressions.
• The novel explores themes of guilt and transgression.

Used when referring to a violation or breaking through a barrier, such as in security, law, or physical structures.

• There was a security breach at the company
• The breach in the dam caused flooding

Indicates a way in or out of something, or the start of an event or period. More neutral and versatile than 'hole' or 'gap'.

• They are looking for an opening in the market
• The ceremony marked the opening of the new school

Refers to an empty space or interval, often between two objects or points in time. It can imply something is missing or incomplete.

• Mind the gap between the train and the platform
• There's a significant gap in her knowledge

Describes an opening or cavity in a surface or substance. Often implies something is damaged or missing.

• He accidentally punched a hole in the wall
• We need to fix the hole in the roof

Used typically in formal, legal, or military contexts to describe a violation, gap, or breaking of an agreement or barrier.

• The company was fined for a data breach that compromised sensitive information.
• The army managed to breach the enemy's defenses.

Often used to describe entering or passing through something, such as materials, markets, or groups. Can have a formal or technical tone.

• The drill can penetrate even the hardest materials.
• The company aims to penetrate the European market.

Commonly used to describe overcoming an obstacle or barrier, often in physical, emotional, or scientific contexts.

• The researchers broke through many challenges to develop the new vaccine.
• She finally broke through her fear of public speaking.

Usually refers to creating holes or punctures, specifically in materials like paper or metal. The tone is technical and precise.

• Please perforate the edges of the paper before binding.
• The bullet perforated the steel plate.