Encroach: meaning, definitions and examples

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encroach

[ ɪnˈkrəʊtʃ ]

^{Context #1}

on someone's territory

To intrude on someone's territory or domain, especially in a gradual or subtle way. It can refer to physical boundaries, such as land or property, as well as metaphorical boundaries, such as personal space or privacy.

Synonyms

intrude, invade, trespass

Examples of usage

The new construction encroaches on the neighboring park.
The company's new policies encroach on employees' freedom.

^{Context #2}

on someone's rights

To violate or infringe upon someone's rights, privileges, or freedoms. It implies a gradual infringement or erosion of these rights.

Synonyms

infringe, undermine, violate

Examples of usage

The new legislation encroaches on citizens' privacy rights.
The government's actions encroach on freedom of speech.

Translations

Translations of the word "encroach" in other languages:

🇵🇹 invadir

🇮🇳 अतिक्रमण करना

🇩🇪 eindringen

🇮🇩 melanggar

🇺🇦 посягати

🇵🇱 naruszać

🇯🇵 侵入する

🇫🇷 empiéter

🇪🇸 invadir

🇹🇷 tecavüz etmek

🇰🇷 침입하다

🇸🇦 يتعدى

🇨🇿 zasahovat

🇸🇰 zasahovať

🇨🇳 侵占

🇸🇮 vdreti

🇮🇸 ganga á

🇰🇿 басып кіру

🇬🇪 შეჭრა

🇦🇿 daxil olmaq

🇲🇽 invadir

Word origin

The word 'encroach' originated from the Old French word 'encrochier', meaning 'to seize' or 'to catch'. It entered the English language in the 14th century, initially used in legal contexts to refer to the act of trespassing on another's rights or land. Over time, its usage expanded to include a broader range of contexts involving gradual intrusion or infringement. The concept of encroachment remains relevant in discussions of boundaries, both physical and metaphorical, in modern society.