If I may interrupt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "If I may interrupt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to politely ask for permission to interject or speak during a conversation or discussion. Example: "If I may interrupt, I have a point that I believe is relevant to the topic at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Albert Einstein: Please, honorable Heraclitus, if I may interrupt.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

If not, the surgeon may interrupt the procedure to discuss further steps with the team or to get advice from a more experienced colleague.

BMC Health Services Research

A recommendation, if I may.

The Guardian - Film

Sir, if I may.

The New Yorker

If I may quote: "Professor A.

The New Yorker

If I may… never mind.

The New Yorker

If it's not fast nor strong, buffering and loading the video may interrupt the viewing.

WikiHow

"Counsel, may I interrupt for just one moment, because I — there is something needling at me that I do need an answer to," Sotomayor said.

The New Yorker

Scarborough: If I can just interrupt here.

Huffington Post

I didn't know if I was to interrupt her or wait until she stopped talking and became quiet.

BMC Medical Education

before starting again, as if I'd interrupted his flow.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "If I may interrupt" to politely gain speaking time, especially in formal settings or when joining an ongoing conversation. This shows respect for the current speaker.

Common error

Avoid using "If I may interrupt" excessively, as it can come across as insincere or overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "Excuse me" or directly stating your point when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "If I may interrupt" functions as a polite interjection. It's used to seek permission to speak or contribute to a conversation, demonstrating respect for the current speaker. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "If I may interrupt" is a polite phrase used to request permission to speak in an ongoing conversation, particularly in more formal settings. As Ludwig AI clarifies, it's grammatically correct and appropriate for interjecting respectfully. While there are many alternative phrases you can use, the key is maintaining politeness and relevance to the discussion. This phrase is more common in news media and scientific contexts, so keep that in mind when choosing your words.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

May I interject?

Direct and polite request to speak.

Excuse me, may I add something?

Formal alternative emphasizing politeness and a request to contribute.

With your permission, I'd like to interject.

Formal, highlights seeking explicit consent to speak.

Could I chime in for a moment?

More casual way to ask to contribute to the conversation briefly.

May I offer a quick comment?

Asks to provide a brief remark, suitable for quick interjections.

If I could just jump in here...

A slightly less formal way to request the opportunity to speak.

Before we move on, may I say something?

Signals a desire to speak before the topic changes.

Can I just add to that?

Direct request to supplement a previous statement.

Would you mind if I said something here?

Polite request that acknowledges the current speaker.

Perhaps I could contribute...

Humble suggestion to add to the discussion.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "If I may interrupt"?

Use "If I may interrupt" when you want to politely interject in a conversation, especially in formal or professional settings where you need to show respect for the current speaker. It's a good way to seek permission before speaking.

What are some alternative ways to say "If I may interrupt"?

You can use alternatives like "Excuse me, may I add something?", "May I interject?", or "Could I chime in?" depending on the level of formality.

Is "If I may interrupt" suitable for informal conversations?

While grammatically correct, "If I may interrupt" might sound overly formal in casual settings. Simpler phrases like "Excuse me" or just briefly pausing and then speaking are often more appropriate.

How can I use "If I may interrupt" effectively in a meeting?

In a meeting, use "If I may interrupt" to politely interject and offer your input or ask a question without disrupting the flow of the discussion. Make sure to be concise and relevant to the topic at hand.