intrude
in-TROOD
/ɪnˈtruːd/
To put oneself deliberately into a place or situation where one is unwelcome or uninvited.
Carries a strong sense of violating privacy, personal space, or boundaries without permission.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'intrudere,' which literally means 'to thrust in' or 'shove into.' It conveys the physical force of pushing oneself into a space where there is no natural opening or invitation.
Word relationships
- trespass: Trespass is a legal term specifically referring to entering someone's land or property without permission, while intrude can apply to abstract situations like conversations or thoughts.
- encroach: Encroach implies a gradual, creeping advance over a boundary, whereas intrude often implies a sudden or direct entry.
- withdraw: To remove oneself from a place or situation.
- respect: To show regard for boundaries and avoid crossing them.
Commonly confused with
- obtrude: Obtrude means to force oneself or one's opinions on others in an intrusive way, emphasizing the forcing of ideas rather than physical presence.
Word family
- intrusion (noun): The act of intruding or state of being intruded upon.
- intrusive (adjective): Causing disruption or annoyance through being unwelcome.
Collocations
- intrude on privacy
- intrude into a conversation
- unwelcome to intrude
Example sentences
- "I did not mean to intrude on your private conversation, so I walked away immediately." A personal boundary dispute between neighbors.
Memory hook
Think of someone wearing 'intruder' boots, 'thrusting' their feet into your private room. Thrust yourself in.
When not to use
Do not use if the entry is authorized or welcomed; use 'enter' or 'join' instead.
Fun facts
- In geology, 'intrusive' rock is igneous rock that formed when magma forced its way into cracks deep beneath the Earth's surface.
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