# trespassing

/ˈtɹɛsˌpæsɪŋ/ (US) · /tɹˈɛspəsɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/trespassing
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the act of entering someone's land or property without their permission. It is often a legal problem and you might see signs telling you not to do it.

For teachers: the act of entering another person's property or land without consent. Often carries legal implications regarding property rights and liability.

## Examples

- The sign says no trespassing is allowed on this farm.
- The hikers were warned that trespassing on private property could lead to a fine from the local authorities.
- While the children thought they were simply exploring the woods, the landowner considered their presence a clear case of trespassing and contacted the police to report the intrusion.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He was trespassing the house." but "He was trespassing on the property." — When used as a verb, it is intransitive and requires the preposition 'on' to indicate the location.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a gerund noun to describe the illegal act itself.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.