Definitions
- Describing a situation where one thing has an impact or effect on another. - Referring to an event or action that infringes on someone's rights or space. - Talking about a situation where something comes into contact with another object or surface.
- Referring to a situation where something gradually and stealthily takes over another's space or territory. - Describing a situation where something intrudes or invades someone's privacy or personal space. - Talking about a situation where something exceeds its limits or boundaries and begins to affect something else.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe a situation where one thing affects or impacts another.
- 2Both words can be used to describe a negative situation.
- 3Both words can be used in formal or informal contexts.
What is the difference?
- 1Extent: Encroach implies a gradual and persistent intrusion, while impinge can refer to a sudden or immediate impact.
- 2Type of impact: Encroach implies a physical invasion or infringement, while impinge can refer to a broader range of impacts, including emotional or psychological ones.
- 3Direction: Encroach implies a movement towards something, while impinge can refer to a situation where something comes from any direction and affects something else.
- 4Connotation: Encroach has a more negative connotation than impinge, which can be neutral or positive depending on the context.
- 5Usage: Encroach is more commonly used to describe a physical invasion or infringement, while impinge is more versatile and can be used in various contexts.
Remember this!
Impinge and encroach both describe a situation where one thing affects or impacts another. However, encroach implies a gradual and persistent intrusion, often involving a physical invasion or infringement, while impinge can refer to a broader range of impacts, including emotional or psychological ones, and can be sudden or immediate. Encroach has a more negative connotation than impinge, and encroach is more commonly used to describe a physical invasion or infringement.
