an instance of something being encroached upon or reduced by a large amount, a sudden hostile incursion; a raid

make inroads, an inroad on/upon something, an inroad into something

Formal and Informal Expressions of inroad

In different contexts, you can replace 'inroad' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'incursion, encroachment' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'raid, attack' is a commonplace synonym.

inroad: Explore its Definition & Usage

inroad Definition

1an instance of something being encroached upon or reduced by a large amount
2a sudden hostile incursion; a raid

Using inroad: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "inroad" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The company's profits have suffered a significant inroad due to the pandemic.
Example
The enemy made an unexpected inroad into our territory.
Example
The new regulations are expected to make an inroad into the company's revenue.

inroad Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for inroad

Antonyms for inroad

Phrases with inroad

make inroads
to make progress or gain acceptance, especially gradually or against resistance
Example
The company is trying to make inroads into the Asian market.
an inroad on/upon something
an encroachment or reduction of something by a large amount
Example
The new policy has made a significant inroad on the company's profits.
an inroad into something
a sudden hostile incursion or raid into a place or territory
Example
The enemy made an unexpected inroad into our territory.

Origins of inroad

from Old English 'inrād', meaning 'a hostile incursion'

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Summary: inroad in Brief

The term 'inroad' [ˈɪnrəʊd] refers to a significant reduction or encroachment, often sudden and hostile. It can also denote a sudden raid or incursion. Examples include 'The company's profits have suffered a significant inroad due to the pandemic,' and 'The enemy made an unexpected inroad into our territory.' Phrases like 'make inroads' describe gradual progress, while 'an inroad on/upon something' denotes a significant reduction or encroachment.