Intercepting: meaning, definitions and examples

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intercepting

[ˌɪntərˈsɛptɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

communication

To intercept means to stop or catch someone or something before they are able to reach a particular place.

Synonyms

block, seize, stop.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
intercepting	Used when something is caught or interrupted in the middle of its course, often in a strategic or tactical situation. The police were intercepting the suspect's phone calls The football player was skilled at intercepting passes
block	Used when preventing movement or progress, often by physically obstructing the way. The protesters managed to block the road She used her shoulder to block the oncoming players
stop	Used when bringing something to a halt, in a general sense. He reached out to stop the door from closing They managed to stop the bleeding
seize	Used when taking hold of something quickly and forcefully, often implying authority or aggression. This term can have a negative connotation. The authorities decided to seize the illegal goods He tried to seize control of the situation

Examples of usage

He was intercepted by security at the entrance.
The police intercepted the package before it reached its destination.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

technology

In technology, intercepting refers to secretly listening to or recording communications, such as phone calls or emails.

Synonyms

eavesdrop, monitor, spy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
intercepting	Used when stopping or catching something in transit, such as a message, signal, or communication, often to prevent it from reaching its intended destination. The security team focused on intercepting any suspicious packages at the border. The satellite is capable of intercepting communications from space.
eavesdrop	Used when secretly listening to private conversations, typically with the intention of gaining information. It has a negative connotation and implies snooping. She was caught eavesdropping on their confidential meeting. He tried to eavesdrop on their conversation by hiding behind the door.
monitor	Used for observing, checking, or keeping track of something over a period of time, often in an official or deliberate manner. It has a neutral or professional tone. We need to monitor the patient's vital signs closely. The software is designed to monitor network traffic for any anomalies.
spy	Used when secretly watching or gathering information about someone, typically for political or military purposes. It often involves covert operations and has a negative or secretive connotation. The government suspected him of being a spy for a foreign country. She was accused of trying to spy on the company's new product designs.

Examples of usage

The government was accused of intercepting private phone conversations.
Hackers can intercept sensitive information transmitted over the internet.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from the Latin verb 'intercipere,' which means 'to seize or catch in between.'
In its earliest uses, it referred to seizing or cutting off supplies.
The first known use in English dates back to the early 16th century, highlighting its long-standing presence in the language.

Science

In physics, intercepting refers to capturing particles, such as intercepting photons in a beam of light.
Meteorology uses the term to describe how precipitation is intercepted by trees or buildings before reaching the ground.
In cybersecurity, intercepting packets of data can help identify and block threats.

Sports

In football (soccer), intercepting a pass can change the course of the game and lead to a counterattack.
American football players practice intercepting throws to gain possession of the ball and turn the tide of play.
Basketball also involves intercepting passes to gain an advantage and stop the opposing team from scoring.

Psychology

Cognitive intercepting refers to interrupting unwanted thoughts or behaviors to change habits.
Therapists often teach techniques for intercepting negative thought patterns before they escalate.
Mindfulness practices encourage intercepting distractions in the moment, promoting focus and mental clarity.

Technology

In telecommunications, intercepting refers to capturing signals for analysis or security purposes.
The concept is also pivotal in developing network protocols that ensure data security and prevent unauthorized access.
Innovations in drone technology involve intercepting moving objects, showcasing practical applications.

Translations

Translations of the word "intercepting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 interceptando

🇮🇳 अवरोधन

🇩🇪 abfangen

🇮🇩 mencegat

🇺🇦 перехоплення

🇵🇱 przechwytywanie

🇯🇵 迎撃

🇫🇷 interception

🇪🇸 interceptación

🇹🇷 önleme

🇰🇷 가로채기

🇸🇦 اعتراض

🇨🇿 zachycení

🇸🇰 zachytávanie

🇨🇳 拦截

🇸🇮 prestrezanje

🇮🇸 upptaka

🇰🇿 ұстау

🇬🇪 დაჭერა

🇦🇿 tutma

🇲🇽 interceptación

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,340, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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22337 shadowing
22338 adoring
22339 quantifiable
22340 intercepting
22341 polygraph
22342 inflected
22343 twinning
...