encroach (C1)
verb
Pronunciation: /ɪnˈkroʊtʃ/
Definition
To intrude on a person's territory, rights, or privacy, or to advance gradually beyond usual or acceptable limits.
Examples
The sea has begun to encroach on the coastline, eroding the beaches.
New housing developments continue to encroach upon the natural habitats of local wildlife.
He felt that his boss was starting to encroach on his personal time by calling him late in the evenings.
How to Use encroach
- encroach on (prepositional phrase)
- To gradually intrude or trespass on a physical space or abstract concept. — "The new building will encroach on the park's green space."
- encroach upon (prepositional phrase)
- A more formal way to say 'encroach on', often used for rights or abstract boundaries. — "The government's new policies could encroach upon individual liberties."
Synonyms of encroach
Words with a similar meaning to encroach:
Antonyms of encroach
Words with the opposite meaning to encroach:
Browse the full Anaversity dictionary