The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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interrupt

verb

/ˌɪn təˈrʌpt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of interrupt

To cause a temporary disruption or cessation of an ongoing activity, process, or conversation.
"The student raised his hand to interrupt the lecture with a relevant point."

Detailed meaning of interrupt

It involves breaking the continuity or flow of something by interjecting or intervening with a separate action or statement. Interruptions can occur in various contexts, such as during a conversation, a meeting, a performance, or even a thought process. When someone interrupts, they usually interpose themselves or their words into a situation, diverting attention or causing a pause in the current activity. Interruptions can range from a brief and minor disruption to a more significant and prolonged disturbance. The intent behind interrupting may vary, such as seeking clarification, challenging a statement, or simply redirecting the focus. While interruptions can sometimes be necessary or beneficial, they can also be seen as impolite or disruptive, depending on the circumstances and the manner in which they are carried out. Overall, the verb "interrupt" describes the action of breaking the continuity or flow of an ongoing activity or conversation through interjection or intervention.

Example sentences containing interrupt

1. He decided to suddenly interrupt the meeting with a surprising announcement.
2. Please don't interrupt my concentration; I'm trying to finish this task.
3. The unexpected phone call will interrupt our dinner plans tonight.
4. I hope the loud noise outside doesn't interrupt your peaceful sleep.
5. Let's not allow disagreements to interrupt our friendship's harmony.
6. The power outage could interrupt our streaming marathon tonight.
7. Her laughter had the ability to interrupt any serious conversation.
8. Don't let minor setbacks interrupt your journey to success.

History and etymology of interrupt

The verb 'interrupt' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'interruptus,' which is a combination of 'inter,' meaning 'between,' and 'rumpere,' meaning 'to break' or 'to burst.' Etymologically, 'interrupt' conveys the idea of breaking in or between, causing a temporary disruption or cessation of an ongoing activity, process, or conversation. It implies an abrupt or unplanned intervention that momentarily halts the flow of something. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass any action that disturbs the continuity of an action or communication, highlighting its disruptive nature and the brief pause it imposes on a given situation or discourse.

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Further usage examples of interrupt

1. I didn't mean to interrupt your train of thought.
2. The breaking news interrupted the scheduled television program.
3. The sudden power outage interrupted the live broadcast.
4. The barking dog continuously interrupts our peaceful neighborhood.
5. I apologize for interrupting, but I have an urgent matter to discuss.
6. Please don't interrupt me while I'm speaking.
7. The sudden storm might interrupt our outdoor plans.
8. His phone call could interrupt our meeting momentarily.
9. I didn't mean to interrupt your concentration.
10. Loud noises from the construction site can interrupt our work.
11. The fire alarm may interrupt the lecture.
12. Let's not allow minor issues to interrupt our progress.
13. A power outage can interrupt electronic devices.
14. Don't let distractions interrupt your focus.
15. She had to interrupt her vacation for an urgent matter.
16. I'll try not to interrupt your train of thought.
17. The teacher asked us not to interrupt her explanation.
18. We must find a way to prevent interruptions during the event.
19. Please, no interruptions during the important presentation.
20. I hate it when technology glitches interrupt my work.
21. They chose a quiet place to avoid interruptions.
22. I hope nothing will interrupt our peaceful evening.
23. A knock on the door may interrupt our meeting.
24. We can't let misunderstandings interrupt our teamwork.
25. Let's minimize interruptions to stay on schedule.