Interact: meaning, definitions and examples

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interact

 

[ˌɪn.tərˈækt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

communication

To act in such a way as to have an effect on another person or thing; to act reciprocally

Synonyms

communicate, connect, engage.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interact

This word is often used when describing the action of two or more people or things having an effect on one another. It is commonly used in both social and technical contexts.

  • Children learn a lot when they interact with each other.
  • How do these chemicals interact in this experiment?
communicate

Use this word when referring to the act of sharing or exchanging information, ideas, or feelings. It is frequently used in both personal and professional settings.

  • We need to communicate clearly to avoid misunderstandings.
  • She communicates in several languages.
engage

Use this word when you want to talk about involving someone in an activity or getting someone's attention. It is often used in educational, social, or professional contexts.

  • The teacher uses games to engage students in learning.
  • It's important to engage with your audience during a presentation.
connect

This word is suitable for describing the act of forming a relationship or a link with someone or something. It can be used in emotional, social, or physical contexts.

  • He felt an instant connection with her.
  • The internet allows us to connect with people from all over the world.

Examples of usage

  • He found it difficult to interact with his colleagues.
  • They need to interact more with their customers to understand their needs better.
Context #2 | Noun

technology

A program or system that allows two or more entities to communicate with each other

Synonyms

collaboration tool, communication system, interface.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interact

Used when individuals or groups are engaging with each other, typically in real-time, to exchange information or ideas. Can be informal or formal.

  • Students often interact with their teachers during online classes.
  • You can interact with other users on social media platforms.
interface

Indicates the point of interaction between users and a computer system or between different software. Mostly used in technical or user-experience contexts.

  • The new software interface is more user-friendly and intuitive.
  • Developers need to ensure the system interface is compatible with other tools.
communication system

Describes a broader infrastructure or framework used for transmitting information, which can include technology, protocols, or methods. Often applied in organizational or technical contexts.

  • The company's new communication system has improved information flow between departments.
  • Emergency services rely on robust communication systems to coordinate their efforts.
collaboration tool

Refers to software or applications specifically designed to help people work together more effectively, often in professional or academic settings.

  • We use a collaboration tool like Slack to manage our project communications.
  • Google Docs is an excellent collaboration tool for working on documents together.

Examples of usage

  • The new social media platform provides a seamless interact experience for its users.
  • This interact feature allows users to collaborate in real-time.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originated from the Latin roots 'inter-' meaning 'between' and 'act' from 'agere,' meaning 'to do.'
  • The term was first recorded in English around the late 20th century, reflecting the rise of technology and social communication.
  • Initially applied primarily in scientific contexts, it expanded to describe human and technological engagements.

Psychology

  • Interacting with others is essential for developing social skills, particularly in children during their early years.
  • Studies show that meaningful interactions can boost mental health and decrease feelings of loneliness.
  • In group dynamics, positive interaction leads to better cooperation and increased productivity among team members.

Technology

  • The digital age has transformed how we interact, with social media platforms allowing people to connect globally.
  • Interactive technology, such as video games and apps, emphasizes user engagement and can foster communities.
  • Virtual reality offers immersive interaction experiences, providing new dimensions to social engagement online.

Education

  • Interactive learning involves activities that engage students more effectively, enhancing information retention.
  • Educators often use cooperative learning strategies, where students interact in groups, leading to shared understanding.
  • Incorporating technology in classrooms, such as interactive whiteboards, encourages student participation and discussion.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures vary in interaction styles; for instance, some may prefer direct communication, while others value indirect approaches.
  • Traditional ceremonies around the world often involve communal interactions, emphasizing community bonds.
  • Language plays a critical role in interactions; people from diverse backgrounds can face challenges in communication.

Translations

Translations of the word "interact" in other languages:

🇵🇹 interagir

🇮🇳 परस्पर क्रिया करना

🇩🇪 interagieren

🇮🇩 berinteraksi

🇺🇦 взаємодіяти

🇵🇱 interakcja

🇯🇵 相互作用する

🇫🇷 interagir

🇪🇸 interactuar

🇹🇷 etkileşimde bulunmak

🇰🇷 상호 작용하다

🇸🇦 تفاعل

🇨🇿 interagovat

🇸🇰 interagovať

🇨🇳 互动

🇸🇮 interakcija

🇮🇸 hafa samskipti

🇰🇿 өзара әрекеттесу

🇬🇪 ურთიერთქმედება

🇦🇿 qarşılıqlı əlaqə

🇲🇽 interactuar

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,907 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.