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 perceived positively, often bringing a break from routine or an unexpected but pleasant change. Example: "During the long meeting, the unexpected news of our project approval was a welcome interruption that lifted everyone's spirits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

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 an event that breaks routine, especially when it alleviates boredom or stress.

Common error

Avoid using "a welcome interruption" sarcastically. Its inherent positive connotation can clash with negative situations, creating unintended irony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a welcome interruption" functions as a noun phrase, where 'welcome' modifies the noun 'interruption'. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, highlighting instances where an interruption is perceived positively, providing a break or pleasant change.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a welcome interruption" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes a positive disruption. Ludwig AI confirms this, providing numerous real-world examples where the phrase is used to denote an appreciated break or change from routine. This phrase is frequently encountered in contexts like news media and business communications. When writing, ensure the positive connotation aligns with the intended message. If you want to imply a negative disruption, use an alternative phrase such as "an unwanted interruption".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a pleasant distraction

Changes the noun from 'interruption' to 'distraction', implying a less disruptive event.

a refreshing break

Focuses on the rejuvenating aspect of the interruption.

a delightful diversion

Emphasizes the enjoyment derived from the interruption.

a fortunate respite

Highlights the temporary relief provided by the interruption.

a serendipitous moment

Suggests that the interruption was a happy accident.

a gratifying pause

Focuses on the satisfying nature of the break.

an opportune moment

Emphasizes the advantageous timing of the interruption.

a favorable interlude

Uses 'interlude' to suggest a brief and positive period.

a boon

Uses one word that signifies a very useful benefit.

a godsend

Uses one word that signifies an unexpected help or advantage.

FAQs

How can "a welcome interruption" be used in a sentence?

You can use "a welcome interruption" to describe an event that breaks routine in a positive way. For example: "The coffee break during the long meeting was "a welcome interruption"."

What's a good alternative to "a welcome interruption"?

Alternatives include "a pleasant distraction", "a refreshing break", or "a delightful diversion", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a welcome interruption" always a positive thing?

Yes, the phrase inherently carries a positive connotation. If you want to describe an unwanted interruption, you would use different wording, such as "an unwelcome interruption".

In what contexts is "a welcome interruption" commonly used?

It's commonly used in contexts where a break from routine is appreciated, such as during long workdays, tedious tasks, or stressful situations. It can be found in "news media", "science", and "formal business" settings.