What are the definitions of “interfere with”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To disrupt or hinder.
Mum says I can get a job if it doesn’t interfere with my homework.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “interfere with”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb interfere with is to disrupt, hinder, or negatively affect something or someone. It is often used to describe situations where one action or event prevents another from happening or causes problems.
What are the different verb forms of “interfere with”?
| Root Verb | interfere with |
| Third Person Singular Present | interferes with |
| Present Participle | interfering with |
| Simple Past | interfered with |
| Past Participle | interfered with |
Example
Loud noises can interfere with your concentration.
Example
His constant talking interferes with my ability to focus.
Example
The construction outside is interfering with our meeting.
Example
The rain interfered with our plans for a picnic.
Example
Her sleep was interfered with by the noisy neighbors.
What kind of phrasal verb is “interfere with”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“interfere with” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The bad weather interfered with our travel plans.
Example
His illness interfered with his ability to work.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“interfere with” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The bad weather interfered with our travel plans.
Example
His illness interfered with his ability to work.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “interfere with”?
Interfere with someone's life
To meddle or intrude in someone's personal affairs, often causing problems or annoyance.
Example
She doesn't like it when her parents interfere with her life.
Interfere with a signal
To cause disruption or distortion in a communication signal, such as radio, television, or internet.
Example
The storm is interfering with our satellite reception.
Interfere with a process
To disrupt or hinder a process or system, causing it to function less effectively.
Example
Adding too much salt can interfere with the chemical reaction.
Good things to know
Does “interfere with” have an informal or formal tone?
Interfere with is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as academic or professional discussions.
