to interfere with something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to interfere with something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing an action that disrupts or hinders the normal functioning or progress of something. Example: "The loud construction noise outside began to interfere with my ability to concentrate on my work."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"She was conscious not to stop the county committee process and interfere with something without more information, and that was appreciated," Karapetian said.

Los Angeles Times

Ms. Balmori's goal is not to interfere with its water cycle, something that asphalt, which causes dramatic drainage, would do.

The New York Times

Mr. Greenwood, Republican of Pennsylvania, said that the subcommittee did not want to interfere with the authorities and hoped something would be worked out.

The New York Times

"Our focus is developing him as a hitter, and that's not something we want to interfere with," Alderson said.

The New York Times - Sports

The last thing one would expect to interfere with the recovery of the semiconductor industry is something as low-tech as a water shortage.

Forbes

How does that happen and is this something the government needs to interfere with?

Vice

"They never seemed to interfere with anyone.

Independent

"We like to interfere with our surfaces".

The New York Times

"He didn't want to interfere with anything that would interfere with him having fun".

The New York Times

We do not want to interfere with journalists.

The Guardian

doomed because said to interfere with bus riders.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "to interfere with something", ensure that the context clearly identifies what is being interfered with. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "to interfere with something" when a more specific verb accurately describes the action. For example, use "to damage" or "to disrupt" if the interference results in damage or disruption, respectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to interfere with something" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating an action that prevents or hinders the normal course or function of something else. The Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

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Science

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Encyclopedias

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Wiki

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Academia

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to interfere with something" serves to describe an action disrupting or hindering a process. While grammatically correct, according to Ludwig AI, its effectiveness relies on clear contextual understanding. Alternatives like "to obstruct something" or "to disrupt something" may offer greater precision depending on the intended meaning. Ensure clarity in writing by explicitly identifying what is being interfered with to avoid ambiguity. While the phrase has limited examples in the provided data, its adaptability across varied settings points to its value in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to meddle in something

This alternative suggests unwelcome involvement or intervention in something.

to tamper with something

This implies making unauthorized or harmful alterations to something.

to obstruct something

This suggests creating an obstacle or impediment to something.

to disrupt something

This means interrupting or disturbing the normal course of something.

to hinder something

This implies impeding or delaying the progress of something.

to impede something

Similar to 'hinder', this suggests slowing down or preventing progress.

to intrude on something

This indicates entering or interfering in a situation without permission or welcome.

to encroach on something

This suggests gradually taking over or infringing on something.

to impinge on something

This implies having a negative effect or impact on something.

to get in the way of something

This is an informal way of saying to obstruct or hinder something.

FAQs

How can I use "to interfere with something" in a sentence?

Use "to interfere with something" to describe an action that disrupts or obstructs a process, activity, or object. For example, "Loud noises can interfere with concentration."

What are some alternatives to "to interfere with something"?

You can use alternatives like "to meddle in something", "to obstruct something", or "to disrupt something", depending on the context.

What's the difference between "to interfere with something" and "to disrupt something"?

"To interfere with something" generally implies hindering or obstructing, while "to disrupt something" suggests a more significant interruption or disturbance. The choice depends on the degree of impact.

Is it always negative to "interfere with something"?

While often negative, "to interfere with something" isn't inherently so. It simply means to become involved in a way that affects the original state or process. The outcome dictates whether it's positive or negative.