intrude - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
intrude Word Meanings
- to enter a place without permission
- to impose oneself on others
- to interrupt or disturb someone's activities
intrude Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
intrude Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈtruːd/
US
/ɪnˈtrud/
intrude Word Etymology
in- (not) + trudere (to thrust) → Latin → Old French → English; Imagine someone pushing through a door uninvited, disrupting a gathering, which connects to the idea of intrusion.
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 InputReal Context
Intrude means to enter a place or situation without permission, or to impose oneself on others in a way that feels unwelcome. It covers both literal entry, as when a person slips into a room, and the figurative sense, such as interrupting a conversation or intruding on someone's privacy. In everyday English, intrude often pairs with prepositions like into or on, and with nouns such as space, conversation, or personal matters. Learners frequently confuse intrude with invade or trespass, or use it when a more neutral term like enter would be better. Focus on the sense of unwelcome intrusion and the lack of consent.
Usage Reminders
- Use intrude for unwelcome entry
- Do not overstate the permission issue in polite contexts
- Pair with into or on to show the target
- Contrast with enter for neutral situations
- Be careful not to imply physical danger unless that is intended
- Consider privacy or conversation boundaries when choosing intrude
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing intrude with invade when there is no violence
- Using intrude for polite, invited participation
- Thinking intrude always involves privacy invasion
- Mixing intrude with trespass in public spaces
- Using enter where intrude is required by tone
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, intrusion often focuses on the boundary-crossing aspect rather than formal legality; intrude signals a personal boundary being ignored and a verbal or social interruption rather than a crime.
Learning Tips
- Learn core collocations with into and on
- Differentiate intrude from invade and trespass
- Notice tone: intrude is unwanted, not just entering
- Use with privacy, conversation, space contexts
- Practice polite alternatives (enter, join) in soft contexts
- Think about boundaries and consent in social scenes
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'intrude'?
A.Search
B.Ask politely
C.Enter without permission
D.Work together
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'intrude' used correctly?
A.I invited my friend to come over, but he refused to intrude.
B.The teacher asked the students to intrude the classroom for their projects.
C.Please do not intrude in other people's personal space.
D.She asked for their opinion and respected their right to intrude.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'intrude'?
A.Retreat
B.Obey
C.Invade
D.Respect
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context would you use the word 'intrude'?
A.Asking someone to join a conversation
B.Helping a friend with a task
C.Sharing a personal story with a group
D.Knocking on someone's door without permission
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on a situation when someone might feel intruded upon.
A.At a crowded party with strangers
B.During a family gathering
C.While working collaboratively on a project
D.When receiving a surprise gift
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