encroach on space

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "encroach on space" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of intruding or infringing upon a physical or metaphorical area that belongs to someone or something else. Example: "The new construction project will encroach on space that was previously designated as a public park."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The project must not encroach on space and facilities required by the educational program.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Inside the smart, leather-trimmed cabin, the hydrogen equipment doesn't encroach on space – unlike in the 361-litre boot – which leaves lots of passenger room, particularly in the rear thanks to the long wheelbase.

Independent

Inside the smart, leather-trimmed cabin, the hydrogen equipment doesn't encroach on space – unlike in the 361-litre boot – which leaves lots of passenger room So, how is hydrogen power utilised here?

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Its adherents gave no real support to the loopy Texas congressman Steve Stockman, who, on Tuesday, failed in his primary challenge to the incumbent Senator John Cornyn, the minority whip — who moved right himself, although not so much that he encroached on space occupied by Ted Nugent).

The New Yorker

Another issue that was raised in our survey was the fact that using social networks can encroach on students and staff members personal space.

The Guardian

What happens the one time when the margins seep into the whiteness and we encroach on their space?

Vice

"Our intent was never to encroach on public space," Ourisman told the group.

The Washington Post

As more parts of the building are devoted to holding it up, they encroach on the space for working or living in.

The Economist

The study of public plazas in New York City provides proof that over time, commercial interests, like building owners and restaurant operations, encroach on public space.

The New York Times

Framed by buildings that encroach on its space, the south transept of the Gothic monument with its multicolored marble wall is illuminated by raking sunlight.

The New York Times

In an interview on Wednesday, Mr. Perkins said his concern was that the arrangement would set a dangerous precedent, allowing future construction to encroach on open space in public housing developments.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "encroach on space" in academic or formal writing, ensure the context clearly defines what type of space (physical, metaphorical, digital) is being affected and the consequences of the encroachment.

Common error

Avoid using "encroach on space" in overly casual conversations where simpler alternatives like "take up space" or "get in the way" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "encroach on space" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used to describe the action of gradually intruding upon or diminishing a defined area. This is supported by Ludwig, which confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "encroach on space" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that describes the gradual intrusion upon or diminishing of an area, as affirmed by Ludwig. While relatively rare, this phrase effectively conveys a sense of concern regarding the reduction or violation of a space, be it physical or abstract. Its usage tends to lean towards neutral and formal contexts, making it suitable for academic writing, news reporting, and professional communication. Though the examples are few, they originate from authoritative sources such as The New York Times, The Guardian and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Alternatives like "intrude upon space" or "infringe on space" can be considered depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Intrude upon space

Focuses on the act of entering someone else's area without permission.

Infringe on space

Emphasizes the violation of boundaries or rights regarding a particular area.

Invade space

Suggests a more aggressive and forceful entry into a specific area.

Take up space

Highlights the occupation of a certain area, potentially causing inconvenience.

Occupy space

Implies the filling of an area, possibly to the exclusion of others.

Restrict space

Focuses on limiting the availability or extent of a particular area.

Limit space

Similar to restrict, but with a slightly softer connotation.

Reduce space

Indicates a decrease in the amount of available area.

Compress space

Highlights the act of squeezing or packing an area into a smaller volume.

Constrain space

Suggests that space is being limited by some external factor.

FAQs

How can I use "encroach on space" in a sentence?

You can use "encroach on space" to describe situations where something gradually intrudes upon or diminishes an area. For example, "The new building will "encroach on space" previously used for the park".

What are some alternatives to "encroach on space"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "intrude upon space", "infringe on space", or "take up space".

When is it appropriate to use "encroach on space"?

"Encroach on space" is suitable for formal writing where you want to convey the idea of a gradual and often unwelcome intrusion into a specific area or territory, whether physical or abstract.

What is the difference between "encroach on space" and "invade space"?

"Invade space" suggests a more forceful and sudden intrusion, while ""encroach on space"" implies a gradual and often less obvious process of intrusion. The former is more aggressive.