chisel in
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Verb (intransitive):
- To interrupt or join a conversation, discussion, or activity, often abruptly or without invitation. This verb describes the action of inserting oneself into an ongoing exchange or situation where one was not originally a participant.
Usage
- The verb "chisel in" is used to describe an uninvited or abrupt interruption. It often carries a slightly negative connotation, implying the interruption is intrusive or unwelcome.
- It is typically followed by the preposition "on" when specifying the conversation or activity being interrupted (e.g., "chisel in on a conversation").
Examples
- Verb:
- I was trying to have a private talk with my boss when a colleague chiseled in with an unrelated question.
- Please don't chisel in on our planning session; we need to focus.
- He has a bad habit of chiseling in whenever he hears something interesting.
Advanced Usage
- "to chisel in on something": This is the most common construction, specifying the target of the interruption.
- She always tries to chisel in on our family debates.
Variants and Related Words
- Chime in (verb): A more common synonym with a very similar meaning of interrupting a conversation to add a remark.
- Butt in (verb): A more informal synonym, often implying a ruder interruption.
- Cut in (verb): Can mean to interrupt a conversation or to join a line/activity out of turn.
Synonyms
- Interrupt: To stop the continuous progress of an activity or process.
- Intrude: To put oneself into a situation where one is not welcome or involved.
- Barge in: To enter or interrupt suddenly and forcefully.
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Break in: To interrupt a conversation.
- He broke in to correct my statement.
Related Idioms
- Put one's oar in: To give an opinion without being asked.
- He couldn't resist putting his oar in during the meeting.
Verb
- break into a conversation
- her husband always chimes in, even when he is not involved in the conversation