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disruptive

adjective

/dɪsˈrʌp tɪv/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of disruptive

Causing disturbance, interruption, or significant change in a particular system, process, or environment.
"The disruptive student constantly interrupted the class with their behavior."

Detailed meaning of disruptive

It implies a deviation from the norm or an unsettling influence that can challenge existing practices, structures, or routines. A disruptive force or element often brings about discontinuity, innovation, or transformation, altering established patterns or paradigms. In various contexts, such as technology, business, or social dynamics, a disruptive idea, technology, or behavior often challenges traditional approaches and conventions, leading to significant shifts or breakthroughs. It may involve introducing new concepts, strategies, or products that reshape industries, markets, or social norms. While disruptive changes can be disruptive in the short term, they can also create opportunities for growth, progress, and positive change by fostering innovation, competition, and adaptation.

Example sentences containing disruptive

1. The student's disruptive behavior in class was a constant challenge for the teacher.
2. The construction work next to the office was so disruptive that productivity decreased significantly.
3. The introduction of smartphones was a disruptive innovation that changed the way people communicate.
4. His disruptive comments during the meeting prevented any constructive discussion from taking place.
5. The storm was highly disruptive, causing power outages and delays in transportation.
6. The startup is working on disruptive technology that could revolutionize the energy industry.

History and etymology of disruptive

The adjective 'disruptive' is directly derived from the verb 'disrupt,' which, in turn, originates from the Latin word 'disrumpere.' This Latin term is composed of 'dis-' meaning 'apart' or 'in different directions,' and 'rumpere' meaning 'to break' or 'to burst.' Consequently, etymologically, 'disruptive' signifies the quality of causing something to be torn apart or broken into pieces. In its modern usage, 'disruptive' describes something that has the capability to cause disturbance, interruption, or significant change in a particular system, process, or environment. The etymology of 'disruptive' underscores its historical connection to the concept of breaking or tearing apart, which has been extended to denote actions or elements that bring about disruption and change in various contexts.

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Further usage examples of disruptive

1. Parents were concerned about the disruptive influence the new student had on their children.
2. The company is undergoing a disruptive transformation in an attempt to adapt to market changes.
3. The frequent software updates were disruptive to the workflow, causing frustration among employees.
4. The manager implemented a new policy to minimize disruptive interruptions during work hours.
5. The protesters used disruptive tactics to draw attention to their cause.
6. The band's disruptive sound challenged the conventions of traditional music genres.
7. The economic crisis has had a disruptive effect on small businesses.
8. The airline's sudden strike was disruptive to travelers’ plans, causing chaos at the airport.
9. The coach removed a player from the team due to his disruptive attitude during training sessions.
10. The disruptive technology revolutionized the way we communicate.
11. Her disruptive behavior in class disrupted the entire lesson.
12. The disruptive noise from construction next door made it impossible to concentrate.
13. The startup had a disruptive impact on the traditional market.
14. The new CEO implemented a disruptive strategy to boost profits.
15. The disruptive innovation forced established companies to adapt.
16. His disruptive ideas challenged the status quo.
17. The disruptive storm caused widespread power outages.
18. The disruptive force of the earthquake shattered windows.
19. The disruptive changes in the industry led to layoffs.
20. Their disruptive protest demanded attention to urgent issues.
21. Disruptive technologies often render old devices obsolete.
22. The disruptive influence of social media is undeniable.
23. The disruptive students were sent to the principal's office.
24. The disruptive shift in consumer preferences caught companies off guard.