Interrupt

To interrupt means to break the continuity of something, to cause a disruption in the flow of an action, process, or speech. It often involves an unwanted or untimely intrusion. This can apply to conversations, activities, events, or any sequence where a temporary break or interference is introduced. The interruption can range from a minor pause to a complete cessation of the ongoing activity, shifting the focus or direction. Interruptions often involve a deliberate act of intruding or interposing. This disturbance may involve the temporary or permanent halting of an activity, either planned or unplanned. It signals a break from the normal or expected course.

Interrupt meaning with examples

• During the lecture, a fire alarm went off, causing a loud disruption that interrupted the professor's explanation of the theory. Students and teachers evacuated the building, thus stopping the planned activities.
• While I was trying to concentrate on a critical project, the incessant ringing of my phone kept interrupting my flow, making it impossible to focus on the task and delaying my progress in finishing the job.
• The comedian's routine was constantly interrupted by hecklers from the audience, which made the humor less effective and changed the atmosphere. The performers adjusted and adapted.
• The meeting was interrupted by a technical issue: the projector malfunctioned, displaying a blank screen. This interruption forced a pause in the presentations and made the presenters adjust to a new strategy.
• A loud crash outside interrupted the movie; the family paused the film to see what was happening. Afterwards they decided that they would continue the rest of the show.