A welcome interruption

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A welcome interruption" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an interruption that is pleasant or beneficial, often in a context where the interruption is seen as a positive change from the norm. Example: "During the long meeting, the unexpected visit from the client was a welcome interruption that lifted everyone's spirits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The hot potato soup at lunchtime was a welcome interruption, but the highlight of the day was arriving back at our quarters in the dark after another long and tiring march.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

That is the caustic view of Dina (Ronit Elkabetz), to whom any interruption — any hint of other lives, however hapless — is a welcome break.

The New Yorker

Yes, the opposition were limited and England were already well on their way, but after watching him having lumps taken out of him all afternoon it was a welcome, beautiful interruption.

The Guardian - Sport

For those familiar with her reference points the night I attend in Sheffield, black women make up about half of those in the audience it provokes a hum of knowing laughter and uninvited but welcome interruptions as her stories tap into the fabric of lives led.

Vice

For those familiar with her reference points – the night I attend in Sheffield, black women make up about half of those in the audience – it provokes a hum of knowing laughter and uninvited but welcome interruptions as her stories tap into the fabric of lives led.

Vice

Once you have assigned everything a decent amount of time, you're free to welcome interruptions as the friends they are.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As often as not, invitations to Mr. Plimpton's came the day of, by telephone, and the calls served as welcome interruptions for the literary crowd.

The New York Times - Style

When we're performing routine tasks—responding to e-mails, scheduling meetings, or catching up on other administrative work we may tolerate or even welcome interruptions or distractions.

Harvard Business Review

Choosing to be more visible and approachable does welcome interruptions, but it has also dramatically increased that amount of ad-hoc connections I'm able to make with employees.

Forbes

It's an interruption, but a welcome one, especially if I haven't got a play on".

The Guardian - Film

A welcome feeling.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "A welcome interruption" to positively frame unexpected events that provide a beneficial change of pace or perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "A welcome interruption" when the interruption clearly causes significant disruption or harm, even if it has minor positive aspects. Ensure the overall impact is genuinely perceived as positive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "A welcome interruption" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an appositive. It describes an unexpected event or situation that is regarded as positive and beneficial. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "A welcome interruption" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon expression used to describe a positive and beneficial disruption. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is valid and well-formed.

It is most frequently encountered in news and media contexts, followed by formal business and scientific writing. When using the phrase, ensure that the interruption is genuinely perceived as beneficial and provides a positive change. Alternatives such as "a pleasant disruption" or "a refreshing break" can be used to convey a similar sentiment. Remember to avoid overusing the phrase in contexts where the interruption is primarily negative or harmful. The authoritative sources where the phrase is found include The New York Times, The Guardian and Forbes among others.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A pleasant disruption

Emphasizes the positive and agreeable nature of the interruption, focusing on its enjoyable aspect.

A refreshing break

Highlights the revitalizing quality of the interruption, suggesting it provides a needed change of pace.

A delightful pause

Stresses the enjoyable and charming aspect of the interruption, indicating it is a pleasant moment.

A fortunate respite

Indicates the interruption is not only welcome but also provides beneficial relief or rest.

A serendipitous moment

Highlights the accidental and fortunate nature of the interruption, suggesting it led to a positive outcome.

A happy diversion

Focuses on how the interruption draws attention away from something else, providing joy and amusement.

A gratifying interlude

Emphasizes the satisfying and pleasing nature of the interruption, indicating it provides a fulfilling experience.

A cherished interval

Highlights the value and fondness associated with the interruption, implying it is a memorable break.

A lovely divergence

Stresses the beautiful and agreeable nature of the interruption, focusing on its pleasant departure from the norm.

An opportune distraction

Indicates the interruption occurred at a favorable or advantageous time, providing welcome relief.

FAQs

How can I use "A welcome interruption" in a sentence?

You can use "A welcome interruption" to describe a situation where an unexpected event provides a positive and refreshing break from the norm. For example: "During the long meeting, the coffee break was "a welcome interruption"".

What are some alternatives to "A welcome interruption"?

Some alternatives to "A welcome interruption" include "a pleasant disruption", "a refreshing break", or "a delightful pause".

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "A welcome interruption"?

It's appropriate to use "A welcome interruption" in contexts where an unexpected event or pause brings positive change, relief, or a fresh perspective. It's often used in situations where routine is broken in a beneficial way.

What is the difference between "A welcome interruption" and "An unwelcome interruption"?

"A welcome interruption" describes an event that is perceived as positive and beneficial, while "An unwelcome interruption" describes an event that is seen as disruptive, negative, and unwanted.