Interface: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when discussing the point where two systems, subjects, organizations, etc., meet and interact. Common in technical and computing contexts.

• The interface between the user and the software needs to be user-friendly.
• He is designing a new interface for the control system.

Ideal when referring to an action that occurs as two or more entities affect each other. Common in social, scientific, and technical contexts.

• The interactions between different species in the ecosystem are complex.
• Social interaction is crucial for mental health.

Appropriate in general contexts to indicate a relationship or link between people, things, or events.

• There is a deep emotional connection between the mother and her child.
• The connection between diet and health is well documented.

Suitable for describing a physical, logical, or metaphorical bond or relationship between two entities.

• There is a historical link between the two nations.
• Click on the link to access the website.

Use when referring to a point where two systems, subjects, organizations, or devices interact and communicate with each other, particularly in the realms of technology and computing.

• The user interface of the software is very intuitive
• The application interfaces with the database to retrieve information

Best used to describe a place where two or more things, typically roads or railway lines, meet or are joined. It often refers to a physical location.

• There is a major junction at the edge of the town where the two highways meet
• The rail junction is a key point in the transportation network

Employ this term when describing a physical or abstract point where two paths, lines, or roads cross each other. It works well for both literal crossings and mathematical or logical intersections.

• There was heavy traffic at the intersection of Main Street and First Avenue
• The intersection of two sets in mathematics is a set of elements common to both

Applicable when describing a location where people are supposed to meet or where different activities or ideas converge. It's often used in social or logistical contexts.

• The coffee shop is a popular meeting point for local artists
• We agreed to meet at a designated meeting point after the concert

Used in a more general sense, can also refer to human interactions with objects or systems, similar to 'interact' but often in a more structured setting.

• We need a translator to interface with the local authorities.
• Teachers interface with parents during the open house event.

Used when talking about establishing a link or relationship between people, devices, or ideas. It has both physical and emotional connotations.

• The internet allows us to connect with people all over the world.
• They quickly connected over their shared interests.

Used when talking about sharing information or ideas, typically between people or groups. It can also refer to non-verbal interactions.

• They communicate through emails and meetings.
• She finds it hard to communicate her feelings.

Used to describe mutual action or influence between people, animals, or things. It is often used in social, physical, or biological contexts.

• Children learn a lot when they interact with each other.
• The chemicals interact in a way that produces heat.