be intrusive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be intrusive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions or behaviors that invade someone's privacy or personal space, often in a negative context. Example: "I don't want to be intrusive, but I feel like I need to ask about your situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These can be intrusive.

The Economist

"This won't be intrusive," Mr. Harrison said.

The New York Times

I didn't want the color to be intrusive.

The New York Times

"Obviously this would not be intrusive that way.

The New York Times

These measures need not be intrusive, or infringe upon sovereignty.

The Guardian

The N.F.L. procedure for collecting urine samples can be intrusive.

The New York Times - Sports

Most rooms cannot be closed off completely and noise can be intrusive.

The New York Times

Smell is particularly important because the odors of illness can be intrusive, Ms. Fry said.

The New York Times

Many of the devices that feed into it, such as sensors and cameras, will be intrusive.

The Economist

A paved trail, she says, would be intrusive to the environment and to neighboring residents.

The New York Times

The problem with mass snaps is that they can be intrusive.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In personal interactions, be mindful of cultural norms regarding personal space and communication styles to avoid seeming to "be intrusive".

Common error

Avoid using "be intrusive" in overly formal contexts where more sophisticated vocabulary is expected; consider more nuanced alternatives like "encroach" or "infringe" to maintain the appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be intrusive" functions as a descriptor, typically an adjective phrase, used to characterize actions, behaviors, or objects that tend to interrupt, disturb, or enter without welcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is used in many contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

28%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be intrusive" is a common and generally accepted way to describe something that disrupts, interferes, or oversteps boundaries. According to Ludwig AI, it’s grammatically sound and widely used. It appears frequently in News & Media, Science and Wiki. When you want to express a similar concept, consider alternatives such as "overstep boundaries" or "invade privacy". However, choose your words carefully, because being mindful of your impact is extremely important.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intrude upon

A more formal way of saying "be intrusive", emphasizing the disruption or imposition on someone's time or space.

infringe upon

Similar to intrude upon, but may also refer to violating rights or agreements.

overstep boundaries

Indicates exceeding acceptable limits of behavior or interaction, focusing on violating personal space or rules.

invade privacy

Specifically refers to violating someone's personal privacy, often through surveillance or unwanted access to personal information.

be obtrusive

Highlights the quality of being noticeable or prominent in an unwelcome way, focusing on the disturbance caused.

be meddlesome

Implies interfering in other people's affairs in an unwanted way, suggesting a nosy or overbearing attitude.

impose oneself

Suggests forcing one's presence or opinions on others, highlighting the lack of consideration for others' preferences.

poke one's nose in

An idiomatic expression indicating unwarranted curiosity and interference in other people's affairs.

butt in

Suggests interrupting or interfering in a conversation or situation abruptly and rudely.

horn in

Similar to butt in, but somewhat informal, suggests imposing oneself into an existing situation or conversation

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says, "Don't "be intrusive""?

It means they're asking you not to interfere in their personal matters, ask overly personal questions, or otherwise overstep boundaries in a way that makes them uncomfortable. Respecting their request is crucial for maintaining a healthy relationship.

What are some less direct ways to point out that someone is starting to "be intrusive"?

Instead of directly saying, "You're starting to "be intrusive"", you can gently steer the conversation by changing the subject, setting boundaries with a polite but firm statement, or using humor to deflect the probing. For instance, you could say, "I'd rather not discuss that, if you don't mind" or "let's talk about something else".

Is there a difference between "be inquisitive" and "be intrusive"?

"Be inquisitive" implies a desire to learn and ask questions, which can be positive. However, if those questions are overly personal, persistent, or inappropriate, the inquiry can cross the line and "become intrusive". It's about balancing curiosity with respect for boundaries.

How can I tell if I'm about to "be intrusive" when asking for help?

Before asking for help, consider the other person's availability, workload, and relationship to you. Frame your request politely, and offer to reciprocate in the future. Avoid making demands or implying that they are obligated to assist you. If it seems inconvenient for them, respect their decision if they decline or "express hesitation".