infringement
in-FRINJ-ment
/ɪnˈfrɪndʒmənt/
The action of breaking the terms of a law, agreement, etc.; violation.
In the context of inventions, it specifically refers to violating intellectual property rights, such as using a patented invention without permission.
The story behind the word. The word 'infringement' comes from the Latin 'infringere', meaning 'to break, crush, weaken'. This is formed from 'in-' (into, against) and 'frangere' (to break). So, an infringement is literally a 'breaking into' or 'breaking against' a rule or right. It perfectly captures the idea of violating established boundaries or legal protections.
Word relationships
- violation: Broader term for breaking any rule or law; 'infringement' often implies a trespass on rights or boundaries.
- breach: Often used for breaking a contract or agreement.
- transgression: An act that goes against a law, rule, or code of conduct, often with a moral connotation.
- compliance: The act of conforming to a rule or request.
- observance: The action of obeying a law, rule, or custom.
- adherence: Attachment or commitment to a rule, belief, or practice.
Commonly confused with
- theft: 'Theft' is taking someone's tangible property; 'infringement' is violating their intellectual property rights, which are intangible.
Word family
- infringe (verb): To actively break the terms of a law, agreement, etc.; to encroach upon.
Collocations
- patent infringement
- copyright infringement
- trademark infringement
- infringement of rights
Example sentences
- "The tech giant faced a lawsuit for patent infringement after a smaller company claimed their new product copied its patented design." Discussing legal disputes.
- "Any infringement of the school's strict no-bullying policy will result in immediate disciplinary action." Referring to a general violation.
Memory hook
Think of 'IN-FRINGE-ment' as stepping 'IN' and breaking the 'FRINGE' (boundary) of someone's rights. INFRINGEMENT = breaking rights.
When not to use
While applicable to any violation, it's particularly strong in legal contexts, especially regarding rights or laws.
Fun facts
- Patent infringement cases can be extremely complex and costly, often involving years of litigation.
- Many countries have specific courts or legal bodies dedicated to handling intellectual property infringement cases.
Related words
Also appears in
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