IPA

Dictionary definition of interfere

To involve or intervene in someone else's affairs, actions, or processes in a way that disrupts, hinders, or obstructs their normal course or desired outcome.
"Don't interfere with the cat while she's eating, or she might scratch you."

Detailed meaning of interfere

When one interferes, they typically impose their influence, opinions, or actions, often without being invited or requested, causing interference or disturbance in the natural progression or functioning of a situation. Interfering can occur in various contexts, such as personal relationships, professional settings, or societal dynamics, and it often implies a negative connotation, suggesting an intrusion that adversely affects the intended or expected outcome.

Example sentences of interfere

1. The weather conditions are expected to interfere with the satellite signal tonight.
2. We must not interfere in other people's affairs without a good reason.
3. She always tries to interfere with my plans by giving unwanted advice.
4. The new regulations interfere with the company's ability to expand.
5. Please make sure that your personal biases don't interfere with your judgment.
6. I did not want to interfere, so I kept my opinion to myself.

History and etymology of interfere

The verb 'interfere' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'interferre,' which is a combination of 'inter,' meaning 'between,' and 'ferre,' meaning 'to carry' or 'to bring.' In its original sense, 'interferre' meant to bring something in between or among others. Over time, this concept evolved to encompass the idea of getting involved or intervening in someone else's affairs, actions, or processes in a way that disrupts, hinders, or obstructs their normal course or desired outcome. Therefore, etymologically, 'interfere' conveys the notion of inserting oneself or something between, often with negative consequences, leading to disruption or obstruction of the natural flow of events or actions.

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Further usage examples of interfere

1. Her nagging began to interfere with his concentration during the exam.
2. The branches from the neighbor's tree interfere with the view from my window.
3. The loud noise outside started to interfere with our conversation inside.
4. The medication can interfere with sleep, so it's better to take it in the morning.
5. The coach shouldn’t interfere with the referee's decisions during the game.
6. Despite good intentions, he always manages to interfere with our plans.
7. Interfering in their personal lives only added to the chaos.
8. Political interests often interfere with the pursuit of justice.
9. It's essential not to let emotions interfere with rational decisions.
10. The interference of bureaucracy can slow down progress.
11. He had the tendency to interfere in matters that didn't concern him.
12. Trying to control everything can inadvertently interfere with growth.
13. His constant interference hindered the team's ability to innovate.
14. Interfering with the delicate balance of nature can lead to disaster.
15. Parents must strike a balance between guiding and interfering in their children's lives.
16. Their interference in the negotiation process complicated matters.
17. It's best not to interfere with the intricacies of a complex system.
18. Interfering with someone's personal space can breed resentment.
19. Sometimes, well-intentioned advice can unintentionally interfere with progress.
20. Government regulations can either facilitate or interfere with business growth.
21. Interference from external sources disrupted the peaceful atmosphere.
22. Despite her good intentions, her actions often interfere with our goals.
23. Interfering in their relationship only strained their bond further.
24. Let's work together without interfering in each other's tasks.
25. Interfering with the natural course of events can lead to unexpected consequences.