encroach
/ɛŋˈkɹəʊtʃ/
Group 32Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To intrude on a person's territory or rights; to advance beyond proper limits GRE
Example in Context
The new development encroached on protected wetlands, prompting environmental groups to file suit to halt construction.
Synonyms
invadeintrudetrespass
Etymology
From French 'encrocher', meaning to seize upon, indicating intrusion.
- croche (French) — to seize
Memory Aid
🐦Sounds like “in crow's coach”
Imagine a CROW sitting in a COACH, invading your space — that’s to ENCROACH!
Visual Association
🚪A crow sneaking into a room filled with people, taking over the best seat at the table.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “encroach” mean on the GRE?
encroach (verb) means “To intrude on a person's territory or rights; to advance beyond proper limits”. The new development encroached on protected wetlands, prompting environmental groups to file suit to halt construction.
How to remember “encroach” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “encroach” sounds like “in crow's coach”. Imagine a CROW sitting in a COACH, invading your space — that’s to ENCROACH!
What are synonyms for “encroach”?
Common synonyms: invade, intrude, trespass.