Synonyms for

Invasive

Verb / ˌɪˈnveɪsɪv / Another word for invasive — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

tending to spread aggressively; intrusive

Synonyms & similar words

confined incursive encroaching noninvasive trespassing invading intrusive encroaching spreading infiltrating penetrating permeating invading occupying overrunning overwhelming conquering dominating subjugating annexing colonizing assimilating engulfing swamping flooding overpowering

Synonyms by register

Formal

intrusive encroaching insidious aggressive

Informal

pushy meddling nosy interfering

Literary

marauding predatory ravaging

Antonyms

nonaggressive gentle harmless peaceful unobtrusive mild

Common collocations

  • invasive species
  • invasive weed
  • invasive surgery
  • invasive testing
  • invasive procedure
  • invasive plant
  • invasive behavior
  • invasive growth

Word family

noun invasion
verb invade
adjective invasive
adverb invasively

Usage note

Often used in biology to describe species that spread aggressively into new environments. Can also describe behavior that is unwelcome or intrudes upon others.

Example sentences

  1. The invasive vines were covering the trees in the forest.
  2. The invasive species of fish was harming the ecosystem.
  3. The invasive surgery was necessary to save the patient's life.
  4. The invasive questions made her uncomfortable.
  5. The invasive thoughts were causing her anxiety.

Quotes

  • I don't think there's anything more invasive than the paparazzi. - Jessica Chastain
  • Social media is so invasive. - Lily James
  • The most invasive technology is the camera. - Jean-Luc Godard

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