make inroads into

Idioms  

1. Encroach on, advance at another's expense, as in The Japanese rapidly made inroads into the computer-chip market. The noun inroad originally meant “an invasion.” [Late 1600s]

---

Example Sentences

What is more worrying than their kicking, is how England have struggled to make inroads into defences via other routes.

From BBC • Mar. 12, 2026

"My role is to go looking for wickets, especially with the new ball, and hopefully make inroads into the opposition."

From Barron's • Nov. 21, 2025

Some sports have been able to make inroads into the Middle East.

From Seattle Times • May 15, 2023

Still, faced with declining subscriptions elsewhere, companies are pushing to make inroads into Vietnam.

From Washington Post • Apr. 8, 2023

The plague is beginning to make inroads into its ranks.

From What All The World's A-Seeking The Vital Law of True Life, True Greatness Power and Happiness by Trine, Ralph Waldo