To infringe is to violate, trespass, or encroach upon something—often a law, rule, or someone’s rights. It’s a word that signals overstepping limits, especially in legal, ethical, or personal contexts.
Definition
Infringe (verb):
- To violate or break a law, rule, or agreement.
- To encroach upon someone’s rights, freedoms, or property.
- “Copying the book without permission may infringe copyright laws.”
- “The policy was seen as infringing on individual privacy.”
Synonyms
- Violate
- Breach
- Encroach
- Contravene
- Transgress
Antonyms
- Uphold
- Respect
- Obey
- Comply with
- Honor
Examples in Sentences
- “The surveillance program was criticized for infringing civil liberties.”
- “You must not infringe upon others’ personal space.”
- “Building on that land would infringe local zoning laws.”
Tone and Use
“Infringe” usually carries a formal or legal tone, often used in discussions of rights, intellectual property, laws, or ethics. It implies unauthorized interference or overreach.