Interception: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in sports, especially in American football, to describe a play where a defensive player catches the ball thrown by the opposing team's quarterback.

• The defensive back made an incredible interception and returned it for a touchdown.
• The game was decided by a last-minute interception.

Often used in a broader sense than 'interception', describing the act of stopping or seizing something on its way from one place to another, such as messages, shipments, or even military actions.

• The police were able to intercept a shipment of illegal goods.
• They set up a system to intercept enemy communications.

Has a negative connotation and is used to describe the act of taking something without permission or unlawfully.

• Someone tried to steal my bike last night.
• He was caught trying to steal confidential company documents.

Informal and commonly used to describe the action of quickly taking or seizing something with one's hand.

• I'll grab a cup of coffee before the meeting.
• He managed to grab the last piece of cake.

Used when referring to the act of catching or seizing communication or signals, usually to prevent certain information from reaching its intended destination.

• The security team managed the interception of the confidential email before it reached the competitor.
• The military focuses on the interception of enemy signals to prevent potential threats.

Refers to the act of secretly listening to private conversations. This term often implies a lack of permission and can carry a negative connotation.

• She caught her brother eavesdropping from behind the door while she was on the phone.
• The journalist was accused of eavesdropping on the private meeting.

Refers to continuous observation typically conducted by authorities, often for the purpose of gathering information or ensuring security. This term can include video, audio, or in-person observation.

• The police set up surveillance on the suspect to gather evidence of illegal activities.
• Surveillance cameras are installed throughout the building to enhance security.

Used when referring to the regular observation and checking of activities or data over a period of time, often for the purposes of security or assessment.

• The IT department is responsible for monitoring the network to prevent cyber attacks.
• Patient vital signs must be under constant monitoring in the ICU.