encroach Definition
to gradually take away someone else's rights, or to take control of someone's time, work, etc..
Using encroach: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "encroach" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The new building encroaches on the park.
Example
The company is accused of encroaching on its workers' rights.
Example
I don't want to encroach on your time, but I need your help with something.
Example
The government is trying to prevent private companies from encroaching on public land.
encroach Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with encroach
to gradually take away someone else's rights, or to take control of someone's time, work, etc.
Example
The new building encroaches on the park.
Example
The paparazzi are constantly encroaching upon the celebrity's privacy.
Example
I don't want to encroach on your time, but I need your help with something.
Origins of encroach
from Old French 'encrochier', meaning 'to seize'
Summary: encroach in Brief
'Encroach' [ɪnˈkrəʊtʃ] means to gradually take away someone else's rights or control of their time or work. It can refer to physical spaces, as in 'The new building encroaches on the park,' or more abstractly, as in 'The company is accused of encroaching on its workers' rights.' 'Encroach' is often used with prepositions like 'on/upon,' and has synonyms like 'intrude' and 'infringe.'