Definition

1. 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

1. break into a conversation
   • her husband always chimes in, even when he is not involved in the conversation