intrusive
in-TROO-siv
/ɪnˈtruː.sɪv/
Causing disruption or annoyance through being unwelcome or uninvited.
Describes something physical, digital, or psychological that forces its way into places where it is not wanted.
The story behind the word. Formed from Latin 'in-' (into) and 'trudere' (to push/thrust). To be intrusive is literally to thrust oneself into space belonging to someone else.
Word relationships
- invasive: Invasive suggests active spread and physical penetration (e.g., invasive surgery or species).
- obtrusive: Obtrusive emphasizes being unpleasantly noticeable or sticking out.
- unobtrusive: Not attracting unwelcome attention.
- welcome: Received with pleasure or approval.
Commonly confused with
- prying: Prying describes seeking secrets; intrusive describes physically or mentally thrusting forward.
Word family
- intrude (verb): To enter without permission.
- intrusion (noun): An act or instance of intruding.
- intruder (noun): A person who intrudes.
Collocations
- intrusive thoughts
- intrusive questions
- intrusive technology
- highly intrusive
Example sentences
- "The pop-up advertisements were so intrusive that users quickly abandoned the website." Digital privacy
- "Patients suffering from anxiety often experience intrusive thoughts during stressful periods." Psychology
Memory hook
An INTRUDER is INTRUSIVE because they THRUST themselves through your doorway. Thrusting uninvited.
When not to use
Do not use to describe pleasant or requested entry.
Fun facts
- In geology, 'intrusive rock' (like granite) forms when magma forces its way into cracks deep within existing crustal rock layers.
Related words
Explore more words
intrude, unobtrusive, interfere, interrupt, disruption, disrupt
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