to impinge on

USAGE SUMMARY

"to impinge on" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing something that has an effect or impact on something else. Example: "The new regulations may impinge on our ability to operate freely." Alternative expressions include "to affect" and "to encroach on."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

No one else has a right to impinge on or disrespect your boundaries.

WikiHow

Mr. Cardozo said nobody wanted to impinge on anyone's rights.

The New York Times

Those grim statistics don't seem to impinge on Clarkston.

The New Yorker

It is also unlikely to impinge on tourists.

Independent

That broader definition threatens to impinge on core political speech, Nike contends.

The New York Times

"Anything greater than that begins to impinge on efforts to have a widely diverse student body.

The New York Times - Sports

But General Idris also asserted that the rebels did not want to impinge on Lebanon's sovereignty.

The New York Times

I don't want the outside world to impinge on the conversation we're having.

The New York Times

Rivette's actors portray their characters undisturbedly; there's no world outside or behind the narrative to impinge on it.

The New Yorker

His brush with mortality did not initially seem to impinge on his writing, or his combative choice of subject matter.

The Guardian - Books

There is constant pressure from property developers to impinge on these woods but Mayor Borgen is determined it won't happen.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to impinge on" when you want to express that something is having a noticeable or negative effect on something else, especially when boundaries or rights are being affected.

Common error

While "to impinge on" is acceptable, overuse in formal documents can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language with synonyms like "to affect" or "to influence" to maintain reader interest.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to impinge on" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a prepositional verb. It describes the action of something affecting or having an impact on something else, often in a restrictive or negative way. Ludwig AI provides examples across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

32%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to impinge on" is a prepositional verb phrase indicating that something is affecting or encroaching upon something else, often negatively. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific publications. While generally neutral to formal, it's crucial to use it when conveying a negative impact, especially when boundaries or rights are involved. Remember to avoid overuse by varying your language with synonyms like "to affect" or "to influence". Being mindful of these nuances will enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to affect

This alternative is more general and can refer to any kind of influence, not necessarily negative.

to impact

Similar to 'affect', but often suggests a stronger or more direct influence.

to encroach on

This phrase suggests a gradual or subtle intrusion.

to infringe on

Implies a violation or restriction of rights or boundaries.

to intrude on

Suggests an unwelcome or disruptive entry.

to interfere with

Focuses on the disruption or prevention of a process or activity.

to have an effect on

A more verbose way of saying 'to affect', emphasizing the resulting change.

to exert influence on

Highlights the active application of power or persuasion.

to have repercussions for

Focuses specifically on the negative consequences or effects.

to make inroads into

Suggests a gradual and often competitive advancement or influence.

FAQs

How can I use "to impinge on" in a sentence?

Use "to impinge on" to indicate that something is having a negative impact or encroaching upon something else. For instance, "The new regulations may impinge on our ability to operate freely".

What are some alternatives to "to impinge on"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "to affect", "to encroach on", or "to infringe on" as alternatives to "to impinge on".

Is it better to use "affect" or "impinge on"?

"Affect" is a more general term for having an influence. "To impinge on" suggests a more direct and often negative impact, specifically encroaching on something. Use "affect" when the impact is neutral or positive; use "to impinge on" when it's negative or restrictive.

What does it mean when something "impinges on" your rights?

When something "impinges on" your rights, it means that it's restricting or violating those rights. This often occurs through laws, regulations, or actions that limit your freedoms or entitlements.