infringed
- 01 C1 Advanced
v.to break a law, a rule, or a legal agreement.
v.to violate or break the terms of a law, treaty, or formal agreement. Transitive; requires a direct object.
Simple“The company was sued because they infringed the terms of the contract.”
In context“The court ruled that the new regulations infringed international trade agreements, forcing the government to revise its policy immediately.”
UsageOften used in the passive voice: 'the law was infringed'.
- 02 C1 Advanced
v.to limit or take away someone's rights or freedom.
v.to act in a way that is against a right or that limits someone's freedom. Often used with the preposition 'on' or 'upon'.
Simple“Some people believe that the new cameras infringe on their privacy.”
In context“Critics argued that the surveillance legislation significantly infringed upon the civil liberties of ordinary citizens without sufficient justification.”
UsageCommonly followed by the preposition 'on' or 'upon' when referring to rights or privacy.
- 03 C1 Advanced
adj.describes a rule or right that has been broken.
adj.denoting a treaty, law, or right that has been violated or encroached upon.
Simple“The infringed rights of the workers led to a massive protest.”
In context“The legal team sought compensation for the infringed copyright, citing multiple instances of unauthorized distribution.”
“France’s top court has blocked a ban on social media access for under-15s, ruling that it infringed freedom of expression and privacy.”
“France's top court has struck down a ban on social media for under-15s, saying it infringed upon freedom of expression.”