Trespassing: meaning, definitions and examples

Add to dictionary

trespassing

 

[ ˈtrɛspəsɪŋ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

illegal activity

The act of unlawfully entering someone's property without permission. Trespassing is considered a criminal offense and can result in fines or imprisonment.

Synonyms

encroachment, intrusion, trespass.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
trespassing

Refers to entering someone's land or property without permission. Often used in legal contexts or when there is a violation of someone's rights.

  • The kids were caught trespassing on the neighbor's farm.
  • Trespassing is against the law in many states.
intrusion

Generally refers to the act of entering a place where you are not welcome or expected, often causing disruption. It implies a more forceful or noticeable presence than 'encroachment'.

  • She felt an intrusion of privacy when he read her diary.
  • The sudden intrusion of reporters at the crime scene angered the police.
trespass

Similar to 'trespassing,' it means entering someone's property without permission. It can also be used metaphorically to describe violating someone's rights or boundaries.

  • They were arrested for criminal trespass.
  • His constant questioning felt like a trespass on her personal life.
encroachment

Used to describe a gradual or stealthy intrusion or invasion, often in the context of space, rights, or privileges. It doesn't necessarily imply physical entry and can be used in broader contexts.

  • The construction of the new mall is seen as an encroachment on the community's open spaces.
  • He considers any request for money as an encroachment on his independence.

Examples of usage

  • Police warned the teenagers about the consequences of trespassing on private property.
  • Trespassing signs were posted around the perimeter of the estate to deter intruders.
Context #2 | Verb

illegal action

To enter someone's land or property without permission or legal right. Trespassing can lead to legal action being taken against the individual.

Synonyms

intrude, transgress, violate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
trespassing

Used when someone unlawfully enters someone's private property. Often associated with physical boundaries like land or buildings.

  • The sign clearly said 'No trespassing'
  • He was arrested for trespassing on private land
intrude

Typically used when someone enters into a place, situation, or conversation where they are not wanted or invited. Can be physical or metaphorical.

  • Sorry to intrude, but I needed to ask you something
  • She felt uncomfortable as he intruded on her personal space
violate

Generally used when someone breaks a law, rule, agreement, or personal boundary. It can have a legal, moral, or emotional context.

  • The company was fined for violating environmental regulations
  • She felt violated after her privacy was breached
transgress

Often used in formal or religious contexts to describe the act of breaking a law, rule, or moral code. It has a strong connotation of a serious violation.

  • He was punished for his sins and transgressions
  • To transgress the moral code of the community is unforgivable

Examples of usage

  • The farmer caught the hunters trespassing on his fields and called the authorities.
  • Trespassing on railway tracks is not only dangerous but also illegal.

Translations

Translations of the word "trespassing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 invasão

🇮🇳 अवैध प्रवेश

🇩🇪 Hausfriedensbruch

🇮🇩 penerobosan

🇺🇦 незаконне проникнення

🇵🇱 wtargnięcie

🇯🇵 不法侵入

🇫🇷 intrusion

🇪🇸 intrusión

🇹🇷 izinsiz giriş

🇰🇷 무단 침입

🇸🇦 تعدي

🇨🇿 nedovolený vstup

🇸🇰 nedovolený vstup

🇨🇳 擅自闯入

🇸🇮 nepooblaščeno vstopanje

🇮🇸 óleyfilegur aðgangur

🇰🇿 рұқсатсыз кіру

🇬🇪 უკანონო შეღწევა

🇦🇿 icazəsiz daxil olma

🇲🇽 intrusión

Etymology

The term 'trespassing' has its origins in Old French 'trespas,' meaning 'a passing beyond boundaries.' In English law, the concept of trespass dates back to the medieval period when land ownership and property rights were highly valued. Trespassing was considered a serious offense punishable by law. Over time, the definition and legal consequences of trespassing have evolved, reflecting changes in societal norms and property laws.

See also: trespass, trespasser, trespasses.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,401, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.