Definition of Interview (meaning 1 of 2 — noun)
Quick Meaning of Interview
A meeting where one person asks another person questions to learn about them, usually for employment or media purposes.
Detailed Definition of Interview
A formal conversation in which someone asks questions to learn information about another person, such as for a job or news.
How to Pronounce Interview
Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Three syllables with stress on first: IN-ter-view. The /ər/ in second syllable is the schwa sound (neutral vowel).
Watch out: Sometimes pronounced as IN-ter-VEW with stress on final syllable; should be IN-ter-view with primary stress on first.
Other Meanings of Interview
“Interview” has 2 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 1:
#2 Interview as a verb
To ask someone formal questions in order to learn about them or evaluate them.
interview candidates
Origin and Etymology of Interview
From French 'entrevoir' meaning to see between or glimpse; combined form of 'inter-' (between) and 'view' (to see).
How to Use Interview in a Sentence
Each example shows “interview” in the meaning “A meeting where one person asks another person…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“I have a job interview at the company next Tuesday morning.”
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“The journalist will conduct an interview with the famous actor tomorrow.”
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“Preparing thoroughly for employment interviews significantly increases candidates' success rates.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Interview
Common Synonyms for Interview
Smart Synonyms for Interview — When to Use Each
- meeting
- for general formal gatherings without specific questioning
- conversation
- for casual informal dialogue between two people
- examination
- for assessment through rigorous questioning
Common Collocations with Interview
These phrases pair with “interview” in everyday English:
- job interview
- conduct an interview
- interview question
- interview panel
- interview process
Common Mistakes When Using Interview
Even fluent speakers slip up with “interview”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I have an interview at Monday for the job position.
- ✓ Correct: I have an interview on Monday for the job position.
- Why: Use preposition 'on' with specific days of the week, not 'at'. Use 'at' for times.
- ✗ Wrong: She interviewed the candidate about his previous works.
- ✓ Correct: She interviewed the candidate about his previous work.
- Why: Work (experience/employment) is uncountable, so use singular 'work', not plural 'works'.
Words Confused With Interview
- Interview vs Interrogation: Interview is a formal discussion to gather information; interrogation is intense questioning, often by authority or police.
Other Forms of Interview
Frequently Asked Questions About Interview
What is the meaning of "Interview"?
A meeting where one person asks another person questions to learn about them, usually for employment or media purposes.
How do you pronounce "Interview"?
The IPA is /ˈɪntərvjuː/. Three syllables with stress on first: IN-ter-view. The /ər/ in second syllable is the schwa sound (neutral vowel).
What part of speech is "Interview"?
"Interview" is a noun at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Interview"?
Common synonyms include meeting, conversation, discussion.
How do you use "Interview" in a sentence?
For example: "I have a job interview at the company next Tuesday morning."