Definition of Interrupt
Quick Meaning of Interrupt
To stop someone while they are talking or doing something before they finish.
Detailed Definition of Interrupt
To stop someone in the middle of what they are doing or saying; to break the continuity of an action or process.
How to Pronounce Interrupt
Stress pattern: ooO (3-syllable word).
Tip: Stress on the third syllable: in-ter-UPT. The stress changes the word meaning from noun (IN-ter-rupt) to verb (in-ter-UPT).
Watch out: Some put stress on first syllable (IN-ter-rupt) when it should be in-ter-UPT.
Origin and Etymology of Interrupt
From Latin 'interrumpere', from 'inter-' (between) and 'rumpere' (to break).
How to Use Interrupt in a Sentence
Each example shows “interrupt” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Please do not interrupt me while I am speaking.”
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“The phone call interrupted our meeting.”
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“A power outage interrupted the live broadcast of the important event.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Interrupt
Common Synonyms for Interrupt
Smart Synonyms for Interrupt — When to Use Each
- disturb
- for general disruption of activity or peace
- cut off
- more informal phrase meaning to interrupt someone speaking
Common Collocations with Interrupt
These phrases pair with “interrupt” in everyday English:
- interrupt someone
- interrupt a meeting
- interrupt a conversation
- interrupt service
- constantly interrupting
Common Mistakes When Using Interrupt
Even fluent speakers slip up with “interrupt”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She was interrupting him while he talks.
- ✓ Correct: She was interrupting him while he was talking.
- Why: With past continuous 'was interrupting', use past continuous 'was talking', not simple present 'talks'.
- ✗ Wrong: He interrupt the meeting every time.
- ✓ Correct: He interrupts the meeting every time.
- Why: Singular subject 'he' needs singular verb 'interrupts', not 'interrupt'.
Other Forms of Interrupt
- Noun: interruption
- Verb: interrupt
Frequently Asked Questions About Interrupt
What is the meaning of "Interrupt"?
To stop someone while they are talking or doing something before they finish.
How do you pronounce "Interrupt"?
The IPA is /ˌɪntəˈrʌpt/. Stress on the third syllable: in-ter-UPT. The stress changes the word meaning from noun (IN-ter-rupt) to verb (in-ter-UPT).
What part of speech is "Interrupt"?
"Interrupt" is a verb at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Interrupt"?
Common synonyms include stop, disturb, cut off.
How do you use "Interrupt" in a sentence?
For example: "Please do not interrupt me while I am speaking."