Encroachment: meaning, definitions and examples
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encroachment
[ɪnˈkrəʊtʃmənt ]
Definitions
legal
The action of gradually taking away someone else's rights or property, often in a way that is unfair or illegal.
Synonyms
infringement, intrusion, trespass.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| encroachment |
used to describe a gradual invasion or advancement into an area or space that is typically forbidden or restricted, often referred to in legal or environmental contexts.
|
| trespass |
used specifically for entering someone else's property without permission, carrying a legal implication and often considered a minor offense.
|
| intrusion |
describes an unwelcome or inappropriate entry into a place or situation, often carries a more personal and immediate connotation of disturbance.
|
| infringement |
applicable in situations where there is a violation of laws, rights, or regulations, commonly used in legal and intellectual property contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- The encroachment on the protected land was a clear violation of the law.
- The company was sued for encroachment on its competitor's intellectual property.
- The fence was built with clear encroachment onto the neighbor's land.
general
The gradual intrusion or advance beyond established or proper limits.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| encroachment |
Used when someone gradually takes over someone's rights or property, often without immediate notice. It can be used in both legal and everyday situations, typically with a slightly negative connotation.
|
| invasion |
Often used to describe aggressive and forceful actions where someone enters a place uninvited, like in situations of war or privacy violations. It carries a strong negative connotation.
|
| infringement |
Typically employed in legal contexts to describe violations of laws or rules. It usually has a negative connotation, highlighting the breach of someone's rights or intellectual property.
|
Examples of usage
- The encroachment of the city into the surrounding countryside was met with resistance.
- The encroachment of technology into every aspect of our lives is a topic of concern.
- The encroachment of invasive species threatens the local ecosystem.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'incrocare,' which means to encroach, implying a gradual invasion.
- It has been used in English since the late 14th century, originally relating to trespassing in land use.
Legal Context
- In law, encroachment can refer to buildings or structures that intrude onto someone else's property, often leading to disputes.
- Property laws often include provisions to address encroachments, with specific guidelines on what constitutes legal boundaries.
Ecology
- Encroachment can refer to the invasion of invasive species into native ecosystems, often disrupting local flora and fauna.
- Urban development often leads to ecological encroachment, where natural habitats are reduced due to human expansion.
Cultural Perspectives
- In many cultures, encroachment, especially on indigenous lands, has historical implications that relate to colonization and displacement.
- Art and literature have explored themes of encroachment, using it as a metaphor for personal boundaries being crossed in relationships.
Psychology
- Personal encroachment can describe when someone feels their emotional or physical boundaries are being violated by others.
- Therapeutic practices often address issues of boundary encroachment, helping individuals assert their space without guilt.
Translations
Translations of the word "encroachment" in other languages:
🇵🇹 invasão
🇮🇳 अतिक्रमण
🇩🇪 Eindringen
🇮🇩 penyerobohan
🇺🇦 зазіхання
🇵🇱 wtargnięcie
🇯🇵 侵害 (shingai)
🇫🇷 empiètement
🇪🇸 intrusión
🇹🇷 tehdit
🇰🇷 침해 (chimhae)
🇸🇦 تعدي
🇨🇿 narušení
🇸🇰 narušenie
🇨🇳 侵犯 (qīnfàn)
🇸🇮 vdor
🇮🇸 innrás
🇰🇿 басып кіру
🇬🇪 შეჭრა
🇦🇿 hücum
🇲🇽 intrusión