Interject Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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interject

[ˌɪntərˈdʒɛkt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

during conversation

Interrupt (someone) with a remark or comment.

Synonyms

butt in, chime in, cut in, interrupt.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
interject	Used in more formal or serious situations when someone adds a comment or remark in the middle of a conversation. She interjected a witty comment during the board meeting
interrupt	General term used for stopping someone from speaking, often moderately formal and can be neutral or slightly negative, depending on the context. Please don’t interrupt me while I’m explaining
butt in	Informal and usually used when someone rudely interrupts a conversation they were not part of. This term often carries a negative connotation. He always butts in when we're discussing our plans
cut in	Used to describe someone suddenly interrupting a conversation or activity, often perceived as rude or impolite. Don't cut in when I'm speaking to someone
chime in	Used in friendly or casual conversations when someone joins in to add their opinion or support an idea. It has a positive connotation. Feel free to chime in if you have any suggestions

Examples of usage

He interjected frequently during the meeting.
She interjected with a question.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

theatrical performance

Insert (a remark) in a conversation.

Synonyms

add, include, inject, insert.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
interject	Used when interrupting or adding a comment in the middle of a conversation or dialogue, often abruptly. She was trying to explain the plan, but he kept interjecting with unrelated questions. Excuse me if I interject, but I think we need to reconsider our strategy.
insert	Used when specifically placing something into a space or position, often in a physical sense or within a text or document. Please insert your card into the ATM. She inserted a bookmark to save her place in the book.
add	Commonly used when providing additional information or making a supplementary point to what was previously said or written. I just want to add that we also have a meeting scheduled for Friday. He added some useful insights to the discussion.
include	Used when making something a part of a whole or adding it as part of a list or group. Make sure to include your contact information on the application form. The package includes a user manual and a warranty card.
inject	Generally used in a more technical or medical context, implying the introduction of something directly into another substance or system. It may carry a negative connotation if used metaphorically. The nurse will inject the medicine into your arm. He tried to inject some humor into the otherwise dull presentation, but it felt forced.

Examples of usage

He interjected a joke to lighten the mood.
The actor interjected with an improvised line.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

linguistics

A word or phrase that interrupts the flow of a conversation with a comment or remark.

Synonyms

comment, exclamation, remark.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
interject	Used when someone speaks or inserts a statement abruptly in the middle of a conversation, often interrupting the flow. It can sometimes have a negative connotation, depending on the situation. During the meeting, John interjected with his opinion before anyone else could finish. She interjected a sarcastic comment during the presentation.
comment	Used when someone makes a statement or gives an opinion about something. It is often neutral and can be used in both written and spoken contexts. He left a comment on the blog post expressing his disagreement. During the discussion, she made a helpful comment about the project.
exclamation	Used to express a sudden or strong emotion, often punctuated with an exclamation mark in writing. It is typically short and spontaneous. Wow! That was an amazing performance! Look out! There's a car coming!
remark	Used for a brief, often casual or thoughtful statement about something. It can be neutral, positive, or negative. She made a witty remark about the weather. His remark on the subject was insightful and well-received.

Examples of usage

The word 'um' is often used as an interject.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Communication Studies

Interjecting can be a sign of enthusiasm or strong feelings, showing engagement in a discussion.
Studies reveal that interjecting can sometimes be perceived as rudeness if done excessively, affecting social dynamics.
Skillful interjection can enhance conversations by introducing new ideas, but it should be balanced to maintain healthy dialogue.

Pop Culture

In cinema and theater, characters often interject with comical comments, adding humor to serious scenes.
Famous comedians often use interjections as punchlines, quickly entering a dialogue to create comedic effect.

Psychology

Interjecting can reveal personality traits; for example, more extroverted individuals tend to interject more frequently in group settings.
Some psychological theories suggest that interjecting reflects a need for validation or recognition in social interactions.

Historical Usage

The rise of interjecting in English can be traced back to the 15th century, coinciding with the development of more conversational styles in writing.
Interjections have always been present in human speech, functioning as a natural part of language evolution over centuries.

Origin of 'interject'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'interjectus,' meaning 'thrown between.' It reflects the action of interrupting.
The prefix 'inter-' means 'between,' while 'ject' comes from 'jacere,' meaning 'to throw.' Together, they describe throwing words between speakers.

The word 'interject' originated from the Latin word 'intericere', meaning 'to throw between'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. The concept of interjecting remarks or comments during conversations has been a common practice in various cultures throughout history, as a way to express opinions or add to the discussion.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,865, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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28864 cubed
28865 interject
28866 reinfection
28867 gustatory
28868 paratroopers
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