Infringement
/ɪnˈfrɪndʒmənt/
Definitions
2 meaningsA violation of a law, agreement, or right.
/ɪnˈfrɪndʒmənt/
The act of breaking the terms of a law, agreement, etc.
The unauthorized use of the logo constituted a trademark infringement.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone copies your drawing and says it's theirs. That's an infringement! It's when someone breaks a rule or agreement, like a copyright or contract. It's usually a no-no!
👶 For kids: When someone breaks a rule or a promise, that's an infringement.
More Examples
The new law was criticized as an infringement on civil liberties.
The company was found guilty of patent infringement.
How It's Used
"The company faced legal action due to copyright infringement."
"An infringement of the contract can lead to severe penalties."
An act that violates or encroaches upon someone's rights or property.
/ɪnˈfrɪndʒmənt/
An act that is considered as an intrusion on a person's rights or property.
The use of facial recognition software raised concerns about infringement of personal data.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone constantly looking in your window without asking. That's an infringement! It's like someone invading your space or breaking the rules about your personal stuff, like your privacy.
👶 For kids: When someone does something that bothers you or breaks your personal space, that's an infringement.
More Examples
The judge ruled that the search was an infringement on the suspect's rights.
The construction of a new building was considered an infringement on the neighbors' view.
How It's Used
"The constant surveillance was considered an infringement on privacy."
"Unauthorized entry into the property constitutes an infringement."
Idioms & expressions
patent infringement
The unauthorized use, sale, or manufacture of a patented invention.
"The lawsuit alleged patent infringement, claiming the competitor was selling a product that copied their patented technology."
copyright infringement
The unauthorized use or distribution of copyrighted material.
"The artist filed a lawsuit for copyright infringement, claiming someone used their artwork without permission."
trademark infringement
The unauthorized use of a trademark in connection with goods or services in a manner that is likely to cause confusion, mistake, or deception.
"The company was accused of trademark infringement for using a similar logo to a well-known brand."
From Middle English *infringement*, from Old French *enfraindre* (“to break, infringe”) and Latin *infringere* (“to break, weaken”).
The word 'infringement' has been used in legal and literary contexts since the 16th century, reflecting early concerns over rights and liberties.
Memory tip
Imagine a fence (law or agreement). Infringement is when someone jumps the fence, breaking the rule.