Breaches: meaning, definitions and examples

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breaches

 

[briːtʃɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

cyber security

An incident where a system's security is compromised, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Synonyms

compromise, infraction, violation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
breaches

Use this term when referring to a situation where a promise, law, or agreement has been broken. It's commonly used in legal and cybersecurity contexts.

  • The company faced several breaches of contract last year
  • The security team discovered multiple breaches in the network
violation

Describes a situation where an important rule, law, or moral principle has been broken. This term can be used in various fields such as legal, ethical, or sports settings.

  • The company was fined for environmental violations
  • The athlete faced suspension for the violation of anti-doping rules
infraction

Refers to a minor violation of rules or laws, often used in legal or administrative contexts. The term generally implies less serious consequences.

  • He received a ticket for a traffic infraction
  • The student's infraction of the school dress code was noted by the principal
compromise

Used in cybersecurity or safety contexts to describe a situation where security or confidential information has been weakened or exposed, often negatively.

  • The security team's quick response prevented a major data compromise
  • The password compromise led to unauthorized access to the system

Examples of usage

  • Several breaches were reported in the company's network last month.
  • The data breach exposed customers' personal information.
Context #2 | Verb

legal

To fail to observe or adhere to a law, agreement, or code of conduct.

Synonyms

break, infringe, violate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
breaches

Used when talking about security or breaking through a barrier. Often associated with data breaches or breaches of contract.

  • The company suffered a major data breach last year.
  • He was sued for breach of contract after failing to deliver the project on time.
violate

To disregard or go against something sacred, such as laws, rules, or ethical principles. It often carries a negative connotation.

  • He was penalized for violating the terms of the agreement.
  • The company's actions were seen as a violation of human rights.
break

A general term for causing something to separate or no longer work. It can be used in various situations, from physical damage to rules and promises.

  • Please be careful not to break the vase.
  • If you break the rules, you will have to face the consequences.
infringe

Often used in legal or formal contexts to describe actions that violate laws, rights, or regulations.

  • Downloading music without paying for it infringes copyright laws.
  • Employees should ensure that their work does not infringe on the rights of others.

Examples of usage

  • The company breached the terms of the contract.
  • He breached the confidentiality agreement by sharing the information.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'breach' comes from the Old English 'bryce,' which means 'to break.'
  • It has been used since the 13th century to refer to breaking military lines or gaps in defenses.

Law

  • Breach of contract happens when one party doesn’t fulfill their promises made in an agreement.
  • In criminal law, a breach may refer to violations of laws or regulations, which can lead to penalties.

Cybersecurity

  • In the digital world, a breach often refers to unauthorized access to data, such as personal information.
  • High-profile data breaches can lead to identity theft and financial loss for individuals and organizations.

Military History

  • In military terms, a breach can signify a gap made in enemy defenses, opening pathways for troops.
  • Historical sieges often involved breaches made by cannons or other artillery to enter fortified cities.

Literature

  • Breach is a common theme in literature, often representing the breaking of social contracts between characters.
  • Many epic tales, including Shakespeare's works, explore the concept of breaches in loyalty and trust.

Translations

Translations of the word "breaches" in other languages:

🇵🇹 violação

🇮🇳 उल्लंघन

🇩🇪 Verletzungen

🇮🇩 pelanggaran

🇺🇦 порушення

🇵🇱 naruszenia

🇯🇵 侵害

🇫🇷 violations

🇪🇸 infracciones

🇹🇷 ihlaller

🇰🇷 침해

🇸🇦 انتهاكات

🇨🇿 porušení

🇸🇰 porušenia

🇨🇳 违规

🇸🇮 kršitve

🇮🇸 brot

🇰🇿 бұзушылықтар

🇬🇪 დარღვევები

🇦🇿 qaydaların pozulması

🇲🇽 infracciones

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,995, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.