interlock

USAGE SUMMARY

"interlock" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to describe two things that fit together or interact with each other in a way that relies on their connection. For example, "The interlock between the two companies will result in a powerful partnership."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"If a safety interlock has been overridden, it's a big no-no.

The Guardian

My map will show how committees connect into the larger picture of governance in our democracy and my online database will allow you to ask, "where is my voice?" The committee interlock graph reveals how citizens are inter-connected through different committees (note – only public domain data is used, and only as related to the Hunter Valley in NSW).

The Guardian - Opinion

That's why my committee interlock map is the first attempt to make visible the otherwise invisible process of citizen participation in committee processes.

The Guardian - Opinion

Her own "History of Love" presents at first a set of disconnected puzzle pieces, which the novel proceeds artfully to interlock.

The Economist

Alan Hollinghurst's "The Spell" probes the motives and manners of four gay men whose lives interlock: an architect who fears that his appeal may be waning; his hedonistic son; a flamboyant, failed actor; and a lanky, reticent civil servant from the Foreign Office who discovers the rejuvenating effects of Ecstacy and House Music.

The Economist

When we witness Riggan's play, we are enveloped in the glow of stage lights, and the temperature of the film shifts as if we are entering Riggan's subconscious.Alejandro González Iñárritu, the director, is best known for "21 Grams" and "Babel", films whose narrative cogs interlock like ingenious machinery.

The Economist

Snake vertebrae interlock firmly with one another; a hemispherical posterior projection from each articulates with an anterior concavity (i.e., a cup-shaped depression) on the vertebra in front of it.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In some cases they cross in such a way that they interlock, or fall between one another, with no two notes ever sounding together.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The effect is such that both series of equally spaced notes seem to interlock like the teeth of a cogwheel.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

I believe this safety-interlock switch may not be as effective as you think, because I'm pretty sure my heart's shredding was accidental.

The New Yorker

When he is allowed to drive again, he will have to install an ignition-interlock device, which measures the concentration of alcohol in a driver's breath before his car is permitted to start.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "interlock" when describing physical connections or abstract relationships that are mutually dependent and create a secure, integrated system.

Common error

Avoid using "interlock" when describing one-way connections or relationships where elements do not mutually influence or secure each other. Instead, opt for words like "connect" or "join" for simpler, non-reciprocal connections.

Linguistic Context

The word "interlock" functions as a verb, describing the action of two or more things fitting together securely or relating in such a way that each depends on the other. As Ludwig shows, it can also function as a noun, referring to a device that prevents undesired actions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "interlock" is a versatile word used to describe secure connections and mutual dependencies. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and frequently appears in diverse sources, particularly News & Media, Encyclopedias and Science. Whether it's puzzle pieces fitting together or safety mechanisms preventing accidents, "interlock" signifies a robust, integrated relationship. To avoid misuse, remember that "interlock" should describe reciprocal connections. Alternatives like "mesh together" or "join securely" offer nuanced options. In summary, mastering "interlock" enhances precision in both technical and general writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mesh together

Focuses on the physical or abstract coming together of elements.

join securely

Emphasizes the secure aspect of the connection.

fit snugly

Highlights a tight and precise fit.

connect firmly

Stresses the strength of the connection.

engage completely

Focuses on the full engagement or interaction between elements.

fasten together

Emphasizes the act of securing two or more things.

unite closely

Highlights the near fusion of two or more elements.

become integrated

Emphasizes the action of becoming unified as a whole.

coordinate actions

Focuses on synchronizing activities, rather than physical joining.

correspond reciprocally

Highlights the mutual or reciprocal relationship of elements.

FAQs

How can I use "interlock" in a sentence?

You can use "interlock" to describe how two or more things fit together securely, like "The puzzle pieces interlock to form a complete picture" or "The safety mechanisms interlock to prevent accidents".

What words are similar to "interlock"?

Alternatives to "interlock" include "mesh together", "join securely", or "fit snugly", depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "interlock" to describe abstract relationships?

Yes, "interlock" can describe abstract relationships where elements are mutually dependent. For instance, "The success of both departments interlock".

What's the difference between "interlock" and "connect"?

"Connect" implies a general link, while "interlock" suggests a more secure and integrated relationship where elements mutually depend on each other. For example, "The electrical wires connect" versus "The gears interlock to drive the machine".