interference - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
interference Word Meanings
- the act of interfering with something
- the state of being interfered with
- a disturbance or disruption in a process
interference Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
interference Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌɪntəˈfɪərəns/
US
/ˌɪntərˈfɪrəns/
interference Word Etymology
inter- = between, ferre = to carry. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine two cars interfering with each other in traffic, causing chaos on the road.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I place a clean sheet in front of me and set my pencil to work. A ping from my phone makes me turn my attention away, and the flow stumbles a little. I push the notification aside, adjust my posture, and pull the page back into place, trying to keep the tempo. Interference appears as a small disturbance in the task, nudging me to adapt rather than to quit.
Real Context
Interference is a flexible noun that describes when something gets in the way of a task or process, or when a voice, signal, or event disrupts normal activity. It can mean the act of interfering with something, or the state of being interfered with by someone or something else. In everyday life, you might talk about a distraction or noise that creates interference with your concentration. In physics and engineering, interference is a specific phenomenon where waves, such as light or sound, combine to produce patterns of constructive or destructive interference. The etymology traces back to inter- and ferre, carrying, from Latin to Old French and into English. Imagine two cars crossing paths in busy traffic, creating chaos on the road.
Usage Reminders
- • Use interference to describe both external hindrance and wave phenomena.
- • Pair with 'with' for when something hinders someone.
- • Distinguish interference (noun) from interfere (verb).
- • Common phrases: interference pattern, electromagnetic interference (EMI).
- • Talk about being interfered with, not 'interfering with' when you are the object.
- • In physics, think about constructive vs destructive interference.
Common Misconceptions
- Interference is only a physics term; it also means any obstacle in everyday tasks.
- Interference and interrupt are the same; they are not.
- Interference always worsens outcomes; sometimes it can be constructive in waves.
- Confusing 'interference' with 'interfere' leads to grammar errors.
- EMI stands for electro-magnetic interference, not 'emergency interference.'
Thinking Differences
Interference in English often refers to external hindrance as well as a physics phenomenon. Learners may mix up the noun with the verb interfere and worry about contexts beyond everyday life.
Learning Tips
- Know the two main senses: hindrance in daily life and wave interference in physics.
- Memorize common collocations: interference pattern, electromagnetic interference (EMI).
- Practice with 'interference with' someone vs 'being interfered with by' someone.
- Remember the verb form is 'interfere', not 'interference'.
- Use examples with real-world signals (radio, Wi‑Fi) to recall the sense.
- Learn to distinguish constructive vs destructive interference in physics.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'interference'?
A.A navigator
B.A supporter
C.A barrier
D.A collaborator
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'interference' correctly?
A.She asked for interference in her project.
B.He welcomed the interference of his friend.
C.Their interference led to success.
D.The interference of the referee was unfair.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'interference'?
A.Assistance
B.Intervention
C.Harmony
D.Isolation
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'interference'?
A.Support
B.Mediation
C.Aid
D.Enable
Step 5: Mastery
How can 'interference' be seen in real-life sports?
A.A coach giving helpful advice
B.A fair referee making a necessary call
C.A player purposely obstructing the opponent
D.A team member assisting a teammate
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