Phrasal Verb - Breaking in on
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.Definition
To 'break in on' something or someone means to interrupt an ongoing activity, conversation, or period of silence, often suddenly and without prior invitation or warning. This phrasal verb strongly implies an intrusion or an interruption that disrupts the flow or peace of what was happening. It suggests starting to speak, interjecting a comment, or making a noise that causes a halt or diversion in the primary activity. The interruption can be unwelcome or simply unexpected, and it typically causes the attention of those involved to shift to the new interjecting element, often to the annoyance or surprise of the original participants.
Examples
| No. | Example |
|---|---|
| 1 | Please don't break in on our private conversation; we're discussing something important. |
| 2 | The sudden ringing of the fire alarm broke in on the quiet of the library. |
| 3 | She felt compelled to break in on their heated argument with a voice of reason. |
| 4 | It's considered impolite to break in on someone while they are presenting their ideas. |
| 5 | A loud clap of thunder broke in on the peaceful silence of the late afternoon. |
| 6 | The urgent news flash broke in on the regularly scheduled television program. |
| 7 | He had to break in on their intense planning session to deliver an immediate update. |
| 8 | Don't let any distractions break in on your concentration during the final exam. |
| 9 | The child's excited laughter unexpectedly broke in on the solemn memorial service. |
| 10 | The moderator had to politely break in on the long-winded speaker to keep the debate on schedule. |