Interrupt: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone stops someone else while they are speaking or doing something, typically considered polite or neutral.

• Please do not interrupt while I am explaining
• He interrupted the meeting to make an important announcement

Often used when someone bothers another person, causing them to stop what they are doing or feel uneasy.

• Please do not disturb while I am studying
• The loud noise disturbed the neighbors

Used when someone or something causes a major disturbance or prevents a process or event from continuing as planned.

• The fire alarm disrupted the meeting
• Construction work has disrupted traffic flows

Often used when someone enters a conversation or situation suddenly, sometimes implying a lack of permission or rudeness.

• She broke in on our conversation without any warning
• I had to break in to correct the mistake

Similar to 'break in', but often used when someone speaks over someone else or intrudes into an activity abruptly, suggesting impoliteness.

• He cut in while I was talking
• She always cuts in when someone else is speaking

Used in situations where someone meddles in others' affairs or obstructs progress, often having a negative connotation.

• I don't want to interfere in their argument
• His constant questions interfere with the class's flow

This is a duplicate of the first 'interrupt' and should not be used again in the list to avoid redundancy.

Use when referring to a gesture, action, or sound that is used to convey information or instructions.

• The traffic light turned green, which was the signal to go.
• He raised his hand to signal the waiter.

Use this word to describe something that does not follow the general rule, often indicating a rare or unusual circumstance.

• Everyone has to comply with the rules, with no exceptions.
• She was the only exception to the otherwise strict policy.

Use when referring to something that happens, especially something important or unusual.

• The concert was a major event in the city.
• Graduation is a significant event in a student's life.