C1verb2K

Interfere

UK /["/ˌɪntəˈfɪə(r)/","/ˌɪntəˈfɪəz/","/ˌɪntəˈfɪəd/","/ˌɪntəˈfɪərɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˌɪntərˈfɪr/","/ˌɪntərˈfɪrz/","/ˌɪntərˈfɪrd/","/ˌɪntərˈfɪrɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to get involved in and try to influence a situation that should not really involve you, in a way that annoys other people

In simple words: To get in the way of something or someone.

Examples

  • I wish my parents would stop interfering and let me make my own decisions.
  • The police are very unwilling to interfere in family problems.
  • If you try and interfere in my life, I'll leave.
  • The court will not lightly interfere while an interim order is in place.
  • The courts are reluctant to interfere in these matters.
  • The judge cannot interfere directly in these proceedings.
  • They have no right to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries.
  • Why was he constantly interfering in her life?
  • outsiders interfering in local politics
  • You can listen in, but don't try to interfere in any way.

Usage notes

Use 'interfere' in situations where someone or something disrupts another's activities. It's generally neutral but can be negative in formal contexts, like in work or legal matters.

Grammar pattern

interfere + with / in + object

Memory hint

Think of 'interfere' as 'in the way, fear' — something blocking your path, causing fear.

Collocations

  • seriously
  • directly
  • constantly
  • be allowed to
  • have a right to
  • attempt to
  • in
  • with

Synonyms

  • hinder
  • obstruct
  • interrupt
  • intrude
  • intervene

Antonyms

  • assist
  • help
  • support

Common mistakes

  • 'Interfere' is often confused with 'intervene', which has a slightly different meaning.
  • Learners sometimes use 'interfere' without a preposition, which can sound awkward.
  • Using 'interfere' when talking about positive involvement instead of negative disruption.