Encroaching - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Encroaching means gradually advancing beyond usual or acceptable limits, often intruding on someone else’s space, rights, or territory. It implies a slow, persistent, and sometimes unwanted expansion.
Definition:
Gradually intruding on someone's territory, rights, or space without permission.
Synonyms:
intruding, trespassing, infringing, invading
Part of Speech:
verb, adjective
Antonyms:
retreating, withdrawing
Common Collocations:
encroaching on land, encroaching boundaries, encroaching rights
Derivatives:
encroachment, encroacher
Usage Tips:
Use "encroaching" to describe gradual intrusion, often implying unwanted advance over time.
Common Phrases:
encroaching on territory, encroaching on privacy
Etymology:
From Old French "encrochier," meaning to seize or hook onto something unlawfully.
Examples:
- 1. The weeds are encroaching on the garden path again.
- 2. Developers keep encroaching on the wildlife habitat nearby.
- 3. His loud music is encroaching on my peace and quiet.
- 4. The river is slowly encroaching on the farmland after heavy rains.