What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
interrupt
Example
I'm sorry to interrupt you, but I have a question. [interrupt: verb]
Example
He interrupted her mid-sentence to correct her mistake. [interrupted: past tense]
Example
The power outage interrupted our movie night. [interrupted: past participle]
disturb
Example
Please don't disturb me while I'm studying. [disturb: verb]
Example
The loud music from the party disturbed the neighbors. [disturbed: past tense]
Example
The news of the accident disturbed her greatly. [disturbed: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disturb is more commonly used than interrupt in everyday language. Disturb is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while interrupt is less common and more specific to communication or events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between interrupt and disturb?
Both interrupt and disturb can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but interrupt may be considered more formal due to its association with communication and events.
