intrude on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intrude on" is correct and usable in written English.
It typically means to enter or come into a place or situation without permission or welcome. For example, "The party guests had to ask the noisy neighbors to stop intruding on their celebration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Can we intrude on one's mental space as well as their physical space?

Huffington Post

Some options aren't pleasant, and "Nature" isn't one to let unpleasantness intrude on natural beauty.

The New York Times - Arts

Practical thoughts intrude on mourning.

The New York Times - Books

These investigations intrude on that process".

The New York Times

Political tensions intrude on social gatherings.

The New York Times

The authorities can intrude on the populace.

The Guardian

Barack Obama "Government should not intrude on private family matters.

Independent

It's kind of mean to intrude on people like that".

The New Yorker

Politics, however, was not allowed to intrude on friendship.

The Economist

We intrude on his golf when he's playing golf, and we intrude on his private life when he's not.

The New Yorker

Around these parts, the dreaded perception can intrude on reality.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intrude on" when you want to express the idea of unwanted or unwelcome entry into someone's space, time, or privacy. Be mindful of the context to ensure the phrase accurately conveys the intended level of imposition.

Common error

Avoid using "intrude on" in extremely formal or professional writing where a more nuanced or polite term like "affect" or "influence" might be more appropriate. Consider the audience and the level of formality required.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intrude on" functions primarily as a phrasal verb. It's used to describe the act of entering or interfering in someone's space, time, or affairs without permission or welcome. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "intrude on" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe unwelcome or disruptive entry into someone's space, time, or affairs. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correctly used and understood. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts, with a neutral register suitable for various writing styles. While alternatives exist, "intrude on" clearly conveys a sense of unwanted interference. When using it, consider the level of formality required by the context and choose the most appropriate phrasing to avoid miscommunication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

encroach upon

Similar meaning, emphasizing gradual or stealthy intrusion.

infringe upon

Suggests violating someone's rights or space.

trespass upon

Implies unauthorized entry onto property or rights.

impinge upon

Formal term for having a negative effect or restricting.

disturb

A simpler way to indicate interruption or bother.

interrupt

Focuses on breaking into an ongoing activity.

interfere with

Indicates meddling or hindering something.

obtrude on

Suggests forcing oneself or one's opinions on others.

horn in on

Informal, meaning to interfere or get involved without invitation.

muscle in on

Suggests forceful or aggressive intrusion, often in a competitive context.

FAQs

How can I use "intrude on" in a sentence?

You can use "intrude on" to describe entering someone's space or privacy without permission, like in the sentence, "I didn't want to "intrude on" their conversation".

What are some alternatives to "intrude on"?

Alternatives to "intrude on" include "encroach upon", "infringe upon", or "interfere with", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "intrude in" instead of "intrude on"?

No, the correct preposition to use with "intrude" in this context is "on". Saying "intrude in" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "intrude on" and "interrupt"?

"Intrude on" suggests a more general sense of unwelcome entry, while "interrupt" specifically refers to breaking into an ongoing activity. For example, you might ""intrude on"" someone's thoughts, but you "interrupt" a meeting.