encroaching on

USAGE SUMMARY

"encroaching on" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to describe something that is gradually taking control of something else. For example, "The new business was encroaching on our territory, taking away our customers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"No one is encroaching on the rights of citizens to peaceful protest".

Independent

They're encroaching on us".

The New York Times

We are encroaching on it.

Independent

Meanwhile, the world is encroaching on Gibtown.

The Guardian

Would she be encroaching on the Sartorialist's home turf?

The New York Times

He doesn't like people encroaching on his territory".

The New Yorker

Haredim are steadily encroaching on formerly secular or mixed suburbs.

The Economist

We're sick of oppressive governments encroaching on people".

The New York Times

He added: "It's not just us encroaching on their territory.

The New York Times

Maps showed black containment lines encroaching on red fire lines.

The Guardian

Either way, it is encroaching on my civil liberties".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "encroaching on" to describe a gradual process of intrusion or infringement, not a sudden or forceful takeover.

Common error

Avoid using "encroaching on" to describe situations where the action is immediate and forceful. Instead, use verbs like "invading" or "seizing" for those scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "encroaching on" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used as part of a verb phrase to describe the gradual intrusion or infringement upon a space, right, or domain. Ludwig AI validates its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "encroaching on" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to describe the gradual intrusion or infringement upon something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts. Its frequency is very common, particularly in News & Media and Science sources. When writing, remember to use it to describe gradual, not sudden, actions. Alternatives include "intruding on" and "infringing upon", depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey. This analysis offers practical guidance, common error avoidance, and linguistic insights to improve your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

encroaching into

Highlights the movement and penetration into something

intruding on

Focuses on the act of entering or interfering in a place or situation without permission or welcome.

infringing upon

Emphasizes the violation of a right, law, or territory.

gradually invading

Adds emphasis to both the gradual nature and the invasive quality of the action.

trespassing on

Highlights the act of illegally entering or occupying private property.

impinging on

Suggests a negative impact or restriction on something.

invading

Implies a hostile or aggressive entry into a territory or space.

making inroads into

Describes gradual progress or advancement, often in a competitive context.

overstepping

Indicates exceeding proper limits or boundaries.

advancing upon

Focuses on the forward movement or approach towards something.

FAQs

How can I use "encroaching on" in a sentence?

The phrase "encroaching on" is used to describe something gradually intruding or infringing upon something else. For example, "Urban sprawl is "encroaching on" farmland."

What are some alternatives to saying "encroaching on"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "intruding on", "infringing upon", or "trespassing on".

Is it correct to say "encroaching in" instead of "encroaching on"?

While both can be used, "encroaching on" is more common and generally preferred. "Encroaching into" might be used when emphasizing the movement or penetration into something.

What is the difference between "encroaching on" and "impinging on"?

"Encroaching on" suggests a gradual intrusion, while "impinging on" implies a negative impact or restriction. The nuances depend on the specific context.