Infiltrate: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone or something secretly enters a place or organization to gather information or accomplish a specific goal. Often related to spies or undercover operations.

• The spy managed to infiltrate the enemy base undetected.
• The hacker tried to infiltrate the company's network to steal data.

Used to describe entering through or into something, often with difficulty or force. Can be applied to both tangible and intangible objects like ideas or markets.

• The bullet could not penetrate the thick armor.
• Her words managed to penetrate his stubbornness and make him reconsider.

Commonly used to describe an aggressive entry into a place, typically involving a large group or force. Often associated with military actions or overwhelming intrusions.

• The army was prepared to invade the neighboring country.
• Tourists can sometimes feel like they are invading the tranquility of small villages.

Applied when someone enters a place or interrupts a situation without permission, causing unwanted disruption. Can be used in both physical and metaphorical senses and often has a negative connotation.

• I didn't mean to intrude, but I couldn't help overhearing your conversation.
• The press was criticized for trying to intrude on the private lives of the celebrities.

This is often used in situations involving secretive or clandestine actions, such as espionage or undercover operations. It can have a negative connotation, especially when referring to someone entering an organization to cause harm or gather information illicitly.

• The spy managed to infiltrate the enemy's headquarters
• The undercover agent was tasked with infiltrating the criminal organization

Permeate is used when something spreads throughout an area, substance, or group, often naturally and gradually. It is commonly used in scientific or descriptive contexts.

• The smell of freshly baked bread permeated the entire house
• Corruption had permeated every level of the government

Seep describes a slow, gradual movement of a liquid or substance through small openings, or the spread of something intangible like an idea or feeling. It often has a more passive connotation.

• Water began to seep through the cracks in the foundation
• Doubt began to seep into their minds

Penetrate is typically used to describe breaking through a barrier or gaining access to something with some level of difficulty. This term is versatile and can apply to both physical and non-physical contexts.

• The bullet did not penetrate the bulletproof vest
• New technologies are beginning to penetrate rural areas