interfere with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "interfere with" is correct and usable in written English.
It means to disrupt or obstruct someone else's activity. For example, "I don't want to interfere with your plans, so I'll make my own arrangements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(They may interfere with glasses).

The New York Times - Tech

"They never seemed to interfere with anyone.

Independent

It does not interfere with state law".

The New York Times - Health

"The images interfere with their thinking processes.

The New York Times - Tech

Marriage didn't interfere with her mountaineering.

The New Yorker

Foreigners should not interfere with such things.

The Economist

The government must not interfere with business!

The New York Times

The large buildings interfere with the signals".

The New York Times

"Medications may also interfere with sleep".

The New York Times - Science

Language differences also interfere with geographic mobility.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Antibiotics may also interfere with immune development.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "interfere with", ensure the context clearly identifies what is being disrupted or obstructed to avoid ambiguity. For instance, "The loud music interfered with my concentration" is clearer than "The music interfered".

Common error

While "interfere with" is widely understood, overuse in formal or professional writing can make your writing sound less sophisticated. Consider using synonyms like "impede", "hinder", or "obstruct" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "interfere with" functions primarily as a verb phrase expressing the action of hindering, disrupting, or obstructing something. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. Examples show it used across a broad range of subjects, from physical phenomena to abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "interfere with" is a common and grammatically correct way to express the act of disrupting or obstructing something. Ludwig AI validates its appropriate use across a variety of contexts. While versatile, consider using synonyms in formal writing for increased sophistication. Its high frequency in news and media demonstrates its widespread understanding and acceptance. When using "interfere with", be precise about what is being disrupted to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disrupt

Emphasizes causing disorder or interruption.

hinder

Suggests slowing down or making progress more difficult.

obstruct

Implies a direct blockage or impediment.

impede

Formal term for hindering progress or action.

meddle in

Focuses on unwanted involvement, often in a bothersome way.

intrude on

Highlights an unwelcome entry or disruption.

tamper with

Implies unauthorized or inappropriate alteration.

derail

Suggests causing something to go off course or fail.

obviate

To anticipate and prevent (something, such as a situation) or make (an action) unnecessary.

encroach on

Highlights a gradual or subtle intrusion.

FAQs

How do I use "interfere with" in a sentence?

Use "interfere with" to indicate disruption or obstruction. For example, "The rain might "interfere with" our plans" or "I don't want to "interfere with" your work".

What can I say instead of "interfere with"?

Alternatives include "disrupt", "hinder", "obstruct", or "impede", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "interfere on" instead of "interfere with"?

No, the correct preposition to use with "interfere" in this context is "with". "Interfere on" is not standard English.

What's the difference between "interfere with" and "intervene in"?

"Interfere with" implies disruption or obstruction, while "intervene in" suggests becoming involved to help resolve a situation. The former is often negative, while the latter can be positive or neutral.