let me interrupt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "let me interrupt" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are cutting someone off in the middle of their speaking or if you want to introduce something in the middle of a conversation. For example: John: "I was telling you about my vacation last week..." Lisa: "Let me interrupt you for a second. I wanted to ask you if you enjoyed the beach?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

DR. HORN: Let me interrupt you.

Yale University

FEINGOLD: Let me interrupt here because time is so limited.

The Washington Post

"Let me interrupt your expertise with my confidence".

The New Yorker

We spoke a few times, but COLONEL LANDA: Mademoiselle, let me interrupt you.

The New York Times

Eventually, he looked up at me. "Don't let me interrupt," he said.

The New Yorker

KYL: Let me interrupt again, because you're not getting to the point of my question.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

"Let me not interrupt you," interrupted Chuck Grassley.

Huffington Post

And let me say — (interrupted by applause) — and let me say with respect to what Mike said, we got to bring back the Reagan Democrats to this party because we need the Reagan Democrats, Republican leadership to work, and we're going to have to get a good trade bill that brings jobs back to this country.

The New York Times

Forbes: Let me just interrupt.

Forbes

KORESH: it says — LYNCH: Let me, can I interrupt you for a minute?

The New Yorker

KORESH: it says— LYNCH: Let me, can I interrupt you for a minute?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "let me interrupt" sparingly and only when necessary to maintain a respectful tone. Acknowledge the speaker and briefly explain the reason for interrupting.

Common error

Avoid using "let me interrupt" repeatedly in a conversation, as it can be perceived as rude. Instead, listen attentively and find natural pauses to contribute without frequently cutting off the speaker.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let me interrupt" functions as a discourse marker used to signal a speaker's intention to interject in a conversation. This expression is analyzed with Ludwig's examples, and it demonstrates a direct way to gain the floor.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "let me interrupt" is a common expression used to signal the intent to interject in a conversation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and utility across various contexts, ranging from news and media to academic discussions. While "let me interrupt" is generally acceptable, it's essential to use it judiciously and respectfully. Consider alternatives like "if I may interrupt" or "excuse me for interrupting" to soften the interjection. Always acknowledge the speaker and keep interruptions brief to maintain a polite and productive conversation. Overusing this phrase can be perceived as rude, so strive for a balance between contributing and actively listening.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if i may interrupt

Adds a touch more formality and politeness, emphasizing deference.

can i chime in here

More casual and suggests adding a quick thought or comment.

if i could just jump in

Informal and suggests a quick intervention.

excuse me for interrupting

Directly acknowledges the interruption and offers an apology.

i'd like to interject

More formal and assertive way to indicate a desire to speak.

may i add something

Focuses on contributing information rather than interrupting.

pardon me for butting in

Acknowledges intruding on the conversation, adding a polite apology.

before you continue

Indicates a need to address something before the speaker proceeds.

just a quick point

Signals a brief comment before allowing the speaker to continue.

one moment, if i may

Requests a brief pause with a polite and deferential tone.

FAQs

How can I use "let me interrupt" politely in a conversation?

To use "let me interrupt" politely, acknowledge the speaker first. For example, you could say, "I'm sorry to interrupt, but..." or "Excuse me for interrupting, but I have a quick question."

What are some alternatives to saying "let me interrupt"?

Some alternatives include "if I may interrupt", "can I chime in here", or "may I add something", depending on the level of formality and the context of the conversation.

Is it ever inappropriate to use the phrase "let me interrupt"?

Yes, it can be inappropriate if used excessively or without acknowledging the speaker. In formal settings or when speaking to someone of higher authority, consider using a more deferential phrase like "if I may interrupt" or waiting for a natural pause in the conversation.

How does the phrase "let me interrupt" compare to "excuse me for interrupting"?

"Let me interrupt" signals your intention to speak, while "excuse me for interrupting" acknowledges that you are already breaking into the conversation. The latter is often considered more polite, as it shows awareness of the interruption.