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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.

encroaching

/ɪnˈkroʊtʃɪŋ/ /ɪnˈkrəʊtʃɪŋ/

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.

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