interrupted

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈtɛrəptɪd/

Definitions

1. Something that has been temporarily halted or disturbed in its progress or course.
2. Something that was interrupted by a break, pause, or disruption, often prematurely.

Usage Examples

• The meeting was interrupted by a phone call.
• Her speech was interrupted several times by the audience.
• We had an interrupted service due to the power outage.

Etymology

The word "interrupted" comes from the Latin "interrumpere," meaning "to break between." It evolved through Old French and Middle English, maintaining the meaning of breaking in on a conversation or activity. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe an interruption of a process or action.

Synonyms

• Disrupted
• Stopped
• Broken
• Halted

Antonyms

• Continued
• Uninterrupted
• Ongoing
• Continuous

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• US: /ɪnˈtɛrəptɪd/
• UK: /ɪnˈtɛrəptɪd/
• Australia: /ɪnˈtɛrəptɪd/

Historical Usage

The term "interrupted" has been used since the 14th century in various contexts, typically referring to a temporary halt or disturbance. Historically, it was often used in legal and social situations to describe the suspension of activities or proceedings, especially in the context of debates or formal discussions.

Cultural Nuances

Interruptions in conversations can vary greatly across cultures. In some societies, interrupting someone while speaking is seen as disrespectful, while in others, it may be considered normal or even a sign of engagement in the conversation. The way interruptions are perceived can depend on the context—whether it’s formal or informal—and the relationship between the people involved.

More Information

Interruptions are a common feature of human communication, both in spoken and written forms. In speech, interruptions can happen for a variety of reasons, from enthusiasm and eagerness to contribute, to disagreements or misunderstandings. The act of interrupting has been studied in communication theories, highlighting its role in social dynamics, control over conversations, and its effects on the flow of information. While interruptions are often discouraged in formal settings, they can be a natural part of informal communication. In some contexts, such as debates, interruptions can be seen as a strategic tool used to assert dominance or challenge an argument.