a power interruption

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a power interruption" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a temporary loss of electrical power or service. Example: "Due to a power interruption, the entire neighborhood was left without electricity for several hours."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Treatment usually lasts one or two days, and it must be continuous — a power interruption can cause serious problems.

The New York Times - Health

The power source to the stadium was then switched to the second feeder, which also experienced a power interruption that caused a full outage.

The New York Times - Sports

Extra Points Meadowlands officials said in a statement that the power outage occurred when "one of the two feeders to the stadium experienced a power interruption".

The New York Times - Sports

While such lights will be of little help once their batteries have died and cannot be recharged, they are useful in helping to alert a homeowner to a power interruption.

The New York Times

Attaching an oscilloscope to the board showed that not only does it cause a power interruption when exposed to the light, but also a power spike when exposed to the flash without being plugged into a power supply.

The Guardian - Tech

The breaker on the primary utility feeder tripped, initiating a sequence of events that ultimately caused a power interruption in Phase I and Phase II of the data center.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

The company has also supplied a fuel cell backup power system for a financial company in the UK, to provide extended-run backup power to the building's security office during any power interruption.

Fuel Cells Bulletin

My experience with a recent power interruption (perhaps because of the same storm) is a lesson in the subtleties of surge protection.

The New York Times - Tech

Even a brief power interruption causes the stadium's high-intensity metal halide lights to go out.

The New York Times

At Lilco, Dr. Catacosinos was unpopular among many Long Islanders, who were irate after Hurricane Gloria struck in 1985 and Dr. Catacosinos stayed on vacation during an extended power interruption.

The New York Times

The cathodic protection potential data were acquired with an NIUSB6210 data acquisition module using a test block power interruption method.

Petroleum Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing sensitive equipment or critical systems, clearly state the potential consequences of "a power interruption" to emphasize the importance of backup power solutions.

Common error

Avoid using "a power interruption" and "a power outage" interchangeably without considering the context. "A power interruption" often suggests a shorter duration or a temporary issue, while "a power outage" can imply a more prolonged or widespread event.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a power interruption" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object in a sentence. It refers to an event involving a temporary cessation of electrical power. Ludwig confirms this usage through multiple examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

58%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a power interruption" is a noun phrase used to describe a temporary loss of electrical power. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and is most commonly found in news and scientific contexts. While the term is often used interchangeably with similar phrases like "a power outage" or "a blackout", it typically implies a shorter duration or localized event. When using the phrase, ensure that the context accurately reflects the nature and scale of the electrical power loss. Proper usage helps convey the significance and potential consequences of the event.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an electricity outage

Replaces "power" with "electricity" and uses "outage" instead of "interruption", slightly changing the emphasis.

a power failure

Uses the term "failure" to describe the event, implying a complete cessation of power.

a power cut

This is a more concise, informal way of saying power interruption.

a temporary power loss

Emphasizes the temporary nature of the interruption.

a blackout

This term specifically refers to a more widespread and often longer-lasting power loss.

a mains failure

Focuses on the failure of the main power supply.

an electricity supply cut

Highlights the cutting off of the electricity supply.

a service disruption

Broader term that can encompass power issues but also other types of service failures.

a grid failure

Indicates a problem within the power distribution network itself.

a voltage drop

Describes a reduction in electrical voltage, possibly causing a power interruption.

FAQs

What's the difference between "a power interruption" and "a power outage"?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, "a power interruption" can imply a shorter, more temporary loss of power, whereas "a power outage" might suggest a more prolonged or widespread event.

How can I prevent issues caused by "a power interruption"?

You can use uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) for sensitive equipment, install backup generators, or implement surge protectors to minimize damage from sudden power loss.

What are common causes of "a power interruption"?

"A power interruption" can result from various factors including equipment failure, weather events, grid overload, or scheduled maintenance.

Is "a power interruption" the same as "a blackout"?

No, "a blackout" typically describes a much larger scale and longer lasting power loss affecting a significant area, while "a power interruption" can be more localized and shorter.