Disruption: meaning, definitions and examples

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disruption

 

[ dɪsˈrʌpʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

business

Disruption refers to a major disturbance or interruption in the normal course of events or processes. It often involves introducing new ideas, technologies, or business models that radically change the way things are done.

Synonyms

disturbance, interruption, upheaval.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disruption

This word is used to describe a situation where normal operations or activities are stopped or severely disturbed. It can be used in various contexts such as business, technology, or daily life.

  • The new technology caused a major disruption in the industry.
  • There was a severe disruption in the train services due to the strike.
disturbance

Use this word for situations where there is noise, commotion, or interruption that affects the normal state of things, often leading to inconvenience or discomfort.

  • The loud party next door was a major disturbance to the neighborhood.
  • There was a disturbance in the classroom when the students started arguing.
interruption

This word specifically refers to a temporary halt or pause in an activity or process. It is often used to describe a break in continuous actions or conversations.

  • I'm sorry for the interruption, but could you please clarify your last point?
  • There was an interruption in the broadcast due to technical issues.
upheaval

This word is used for situations involving major changes or disturbances, often accompanied by stress or chaos. It is commonly associated with societal, political, or emotional turmoil.

  • The country underwent a period of political upheaval.
  • Moving to a new city was a huge emotional upheaval for the family.

Examples of usage

  • Digital disruption has transformed many industries, leading to the downfall of traditional businesses.
  • The company faced disruption when a competitor entered the market with a more innovative product.
Context #2 | Noun

technology

In the context of technology, disruption refers to the effect of new technologies that significantly alter the status quo and create new markets or value networks.

Synonyms

innovation, revolution, transformation.

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Word Description / Examples
disruption

Used to describe a situation where a regular pattern or activity is broken or interrupted, often in a negative sense.

  • The construction work caused a major disruption to traffic in the city center.
  • Online streaming services have caused a huge disruption in the traditional cable TV industry.
innovation

Used to talk about new ideas, products, or ways of doing things that bring improvement or progress.

  • The company's latest innovation is a smartphone app that can monitor your health.
  • Her innovation in renewable energy technology has earned her multiple awards.
transformation

Often describes a thorough or dramatic change in form, appearance, or character, generally implying a positive outcome.

  • The old factory underwent a transformation into a modern art gallery.
  • Her transformation from a shy student to a confident speaker was remarkable.
revolution

Refers to a significant and drastic change, often in a social, political, or technological context, which can be either positive or negative.

  • The Industrial Revolution changed the way people worked and lived.
  • The rise of the internet sparked a digital revolution in the way we communicate.

Examples of usage

  • The emergence of blockchain technology has caused disruption in the financial sector.
  • Disruption in the tech industry often leads to rapid changes and fierce competition.
Context #3 | Noun

society

In society, disruption can refer to social or political movements that challenge existing norms and power structures, often leading to social change.

Synonyms

disorder, turmoil, uprising.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disruption

Use it when talking about an interruption or a disturbance that causes something to stop or change direction. Often used in business, services, or daily routines.

  • The power outage caused a major disruption to our workday
  • There was a significant disruption in the supply chain due to the storm
disorder

This word is suitable when referring to a lack of order, organization, or tidiness. It can also describe a medical condition affecting physical or mental health.

  • The room was in complete disorder after the party
  • The patient was diagnosed with an anxiety disorder
turmoil

This is best used when describing a state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty, often involving emotions or political situations.

  • The company was thrown into turmoil after the CEO resigned
  • The country has been in a state of political turmoil for years
uprising

This term is appropriate for describing an act of resistance or rebellion, especially against a government or authority, often involving violence or protest.

  • The uprising against the regime lasted for several weeks
  • The history books discuss several significant uprisings during that period

Examples of usage

  • The civil rights movement in the 1960s caused significant disruption in American society.
  • Disruption by grassroots organizations can bring attention to important social issues.

Translations

Translations of the word "disruption" in other languages:

🇵🇹 disrupção

🇮🇳 विघटन

🇩🇪 Störung

🇮🇩 gangguan

🇺🇦 порушення

🇵🇱 zakłócenie

🇯🇵 混乱

🇫🇷 perturbation

🇪🇸 disrupción

🇹🇷 bozulma

🇰🇷 혼란

🇸🇦 تعطيل

🇨🇿 narušení

🇸🇰 narušenie

🇨🇳 中断

🇸🇮 motnja

🇮🇸 truflun

🇰🇿 бұзылу

🇬🇪 შეწყვეტა

🇦🇿 pozulma

🇲🇽 disrupción

Etymology

The word 'disruption' originates from the Latin word 'disruptio', which means a breaking apart or splitting. The term gained popularity in the business world in the late 20th century with the rise of disruptive innovation theories by scholars like Clayton Christensen. Today, 'disruption' is commonly used across various fields to describe significant changes or disturbances that challenge the status quo.

See also: disrupt, disrupted, disrupter, disruptive, disruptively, disruptor.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,189 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.