Penetration: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is commonly used in technical, military, and business contexts to describe the act of entering or making a way into something. It can have a neutral or positive connotation depending on the context.

• The company's market penetration strategy was highly effective.
• The enemy's lines were weak, allowing a rapid penetration by the advancing troops.

This word is often used in military, espionage, or security contexts to describe the act of entering or gaining access to an area or organization in a covert and possibly deceitful manner. It generally has a negative connotation.

• The spy's infiltration of the enemy's headquarters went unnoticed.
• Infiltration of malware into the system posed significant security risks.

This word is used in scientific, chemical, or general contexts to describe the process of spreading or diffusing through a substance. It is generally neutral and does not carry a negative connotation.

• The permeation of water through the soil helps to nourish the plants.
• The smell of garlic began to permeate the entire house.

This term is typically used in military or aggressive contexts to describe the act of entering a place or situation in large numbers, often forcefully and without permission. It usually carries a negative connotation.

• The invasion of the small country by its powerful neighbor sparked international outrage.
• Privacy invasion by unauthorized surveillance has become a growing concern.

This term is generally used in scenarios involving the entry or passage into something, often with a sense of breaking through or overcoming barriers. It can be used in both physical and abstract contexts, such as market penetration or military penetration.

• The company achieved rapid market penetration with its innovative products
• The penetration of enemy lines was a turning point in the battle

Best suited for situations where someone or something gradually and covertly enters a place or group with the intention of gathering information or gaining influence. It often carries a secretive or deceptive connotation.

• The spy's infiltration into the organization went undetected for years
• Infiltration of new technology into the industry takes time

This word is suitable for describing brief or sudden invasions or intrusions into a territory or place, usually by a hostile force. It is often used in military or political contexts.

• There was a brief incursion into the border village by enemy troops
• The government is taking measures to prevent further incursions

Typically used in situations involving a violent physical attack or strong aggressive actions. The word often has a negative connotation, especially in the context of crime or warfare.

• He was arrested for assault after the bar fight
• The military launched an assault on the enemy base at dawn

This term is often used in military, business, and market contexts. It conveys the idea of breaking through barriers or gaining entry into a specific area or market, sometimes carrying a more aggressive or invasive connotation.

• The army's penetration into enemy territory was swift and decisive.
• The company's market penetration strategy helped them gain a significant share of consumers.

Use 'depth' when discussing the intensity, complexity, or thoroughness of a situation, task, or concept. It often implies a significant degree of detail or understanding.

• The depth of her knowledge in the subject is impressive.
• The book explores the emotional depth of the characters.

This word is suitable for describing the size, range, or scope of something, whether it be a physical area or an abstract concept. It emphasizes the broadness or limits of a subject.

• The extent of the damage after the storm was shocking.
• He did not realize the extent of her dedication.

Reach is commonly used when referring to the physical distance one can extend to, or the influence and accessibility a person or thing has. It can imply the range or connection achievable.

• The child couldn't reach the top shelf.
• Her influence reached across the community.