Word
encroaching
Phoneticsen·croach·ing, stress on the second syllable
US/ɪnˈkɹoʊtʃɪŋ/
UK/ɛnkɹˈəʊtʃɪŋ/
Definition
v. moving forward into an area that belongs to someone else. It can also describe something that is slowly taking over your time or space.
v. advancing into a territory or area that is not one's own; gradually spreading into a space or period of time. Often used to describe physical boundaries or abstract concepts like darkness or noise.
Examples
“The encroaching darkness made it hard to see the path.”
“The city's expansion led to encroaching development that threatened the local wetlands and their wildlife.”
“As the sun began to set, the encroaching shadows across the valley made the distant mountain peaks appear much closer and more imposing than they had at noon.”
Examples
simple
“The encroaching darkness made it hard to see the path.”
contextual
“The city's expansion led to encroaching development that threatened the local wetlands and their wildlife.”
complex
“As the sun began to set, the encroaching shadows across the valley made the distant mountain peaks appear much closer and more imposing than they had at noon.”
Real-World Examples
“However, many of these fires develop in rural and less populated areas, with only a few encroaching on population centres.” “Hundreds of researchers at the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory have observed changes including fewer bees and other pollinators, and sagebrush encroaching in valleys once dominated by wildflowers.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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