formal 5K

Infringement

UK //ɪnˈfrɪndʒmənt// US //ɪnˈfrɪndʒmənt// Pronunciation

Definition

A violation or breach of a law, rule, or agreement.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Breaking a rule or law.

Examples

• The company faced legal action for patent infringement.
• Her actions constituted an infringement on his personal rights.
• They claimed that the new policy was an infringement of free speech.
• The artist was sued for infringement after copying the original artwork.
• Infringement of privacy laws can lead to severe penalties.
• The report discussed various types of copyright infringement.
• The court ruled that his actions did not amount to an infringement.

Usage notes

Use in legal contexts. Avoid in casual conversation. Often used in discussions about rights, patents, or regulations.

Grammar pattern

infringement + on/upon + object

Memory hint

Infringement sounds like 'in-fringe-ment' - picture someone fraying the edges of a law.

Collocations

• intellectual property infringement
• copyright infringement
• patent infringement
• infringement notice
• infringement claim

Synonyms

• violation
• breach
• transgression
• encroachment
• infringement

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'infraction' - which is generally a minor violation.
• Omitting the context: 'infringement of rights' needs clarity.
• Using informally: 'infringement' is not common in everyday speech.