The verb 'encroaches' describes the act of gradually intruding upon, trespassing, or taking over something, typically land, rights, territory, or personal space. It implies a slow, often subtle, and potentially unwanted extension or advance. It can also refer to a gradual limitation or diminishing of something, like freedom or privacy. The 'encroachment' can be physical, like buildings encroaching on farmland, or abstract, such as the encroachment of governmental power on individual liberties. It suggests an action that is either unwelcome or at least a subtle violation of boundaries.
Encroaches meaning with examples
- Rapid urban development encroaches upon the natural habitats of many species, leading to habitat loss and biodiversity decline. Concrete structures replace forests, affecting local ecosystems and forcing animals to move. Wildlife's survival is threatened with loss of space and food resources. Conservation efforts are crucial to combat these environmental changes.
- The constant stream of news alerts and social media notifications encroaches on focused work time and attention, disrupting productivity. Distractions become the norm, making it hard to concentrate for extended periods. The ease of connectivity can be the opposite of productivity. A good balance needs to be struck for efficiency.
- The new regulations encroaches on business autonomy, creating more bureaucratic barriers and constraints for entrepreneurs. Companies now deal with more red tape and overhead. Innovation may be stifled, as compliance becomes the primary focus instead of efficiency. Business owners feel restricted by external pressures.
- As the population grows, the demands of human needs inevitably encroaches on the availability of natural resources such as water and forests. This resource depletion may increase the need for environmental protections and conservation and could affect economic growth or international relations. Climate change adds another layer of difficulty.
- The subtle, nagging feeling of self-doubt often encroaches on one's ability to pursue their dreams and goals. Internal criticism can sabotage any progress. Overcoming this inner critic requires self-awareness and positive thinking. Encouragement is key to moving past this form of mental limitation.
Encroaches Synonyms
encroaches impinges imposes infringes interferes intrudes invades obtrudes trespasses trespassesEncroaches Antonyms
avoids relinquishes respects retreats stays away withdraws yieldsEncroaches Crossword Answers
8 Letters
IMPINGES
15 Letters
STEPSONONESTOES