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Disrupting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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disrupting

[dɪsˈrʌptɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

business context

Disrupting refers to the act of interrupting or preventing the normal progress or activity of something. In a business context, it often means altering established markets or practices through innovation or unconventional methods. This can lead to the transformation of industries and the creation of new market leaders. The term is frequently associated with technology and startups that challenge traditional companies. Disruption can also create opportunities for new approaches and models.

Synonyms

disturbing, interrupting, overthrowing, shaking up, transforming.

Examples of usage

  • The company's new app is disrupting the traditional retail market.
  • Innovations are disrupting established ways of doing business.
  • His ideas have the potential for disrupting the education system.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Business

  • Technological companies are often seen as disrupting traditional industries by offering innovative solutions.
  • The term 'disruptive innovation' describes new ideas that unexpectedly displace established products or services.
  • Companies like Uber and Airbnb disrupted their respective markets by changing how people think about transportation and lodging.

Psychology

  • Disruption can impact attention spans and cognitive function, leading to reduced task performance.
  • Research shows that frequent interruptions can increase stress levels and decrease productivity.
  • The brain's ability to refocus after a disruption takes time, which can lead to 'attention residue', where thoughts linger on previous tasks.

Art and Culture

  • In art, disrupting traditional forms can lead to the creation of avant-garde movements, shaking up aesthetic standards.
  • Performance art often relies on disruption to challenge audience perceptions and provoke thought.
  • Cultural disruptions, such as protests or public demonstrations, can lead to significant societal changes.

Science

  • In ecological terms, disruptions like natural disasters can drastically change entire ecosystems.
  • The concept of 'disruptive selection' in evolution refers to how certain traits become more common due to environmental changes.
  • Disruptions in chemical processes can lead to new compound formations, influencing fields like pharmaceuticals.

Origin of 'disrupting'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'disrumpere', which means 'to break apart'.
  • It entered the English language around the late 14th century.
  • The prefix 'dis-' in Latin signifies 'apart' or 'asunder', while 'rupt' refers to 'break'.

The term 'disrupt' originated from the Latin word 'disrumpere,' which means 'to break apart.' It entered the English language in the early 15th century. In the 20th century, the term gained prominence in business jargon, particularly with Clayton Christensen's work in his book 'The Innovator's Dilemma.' In this context, disruption describes the process by which smaller companies with fewer resources are able to successfully challenge established businesses. Over time, 'disrupting' came to symbolize innovation and transformation in various fields beyond just business, influencing discussions on technology, education, and social practices.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,325, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.