What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
interfere
Example
I don't want to interfere, but I think you should reconsider your decision. [interfere: verb]
Example
The loud music is interfering with my ability to concentrate. [interfering: present participle]
intervene
Example
The teacher had to intervene when the students started fighting. [intervene: verb]
Example
The police intervened to stop the protesters from blocking the road. [intervened: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Interfere is more commonly used than intervene in everyday language. Interfere is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while intervene is less common and is usually used in more formal or serious situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between interfere and intervene?
Intervene is typically associated with a more formal tone, while interfere is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
