interruptible

interruptible

A student raises his hand to ask a question during an interruptible lecture.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Capable of being interrupted: "interruptible" describes something that can be broken off, stopped, or caused to cease temporarily. It often applies to processes, systems, or activities that allow for a pause or break.
Usage Examples
  • (The program can be paused or halted.)
  • (Only a major event could break into her talk.)
  • (You can stop the machine and resume later.)
Advanced Usage

  • "Interruptible power supply": a type of power source that can be temporarily cut off without damaging equipment, common in certain industrial settings.

    • The factory uses an interruptible power supply to reduce electricity costs during peak hours. (Power can be cut when demand is high.)

  • "Interruptible task": in computing, a task that can be suspended and resumed later.

    • The operating system runs interruptible tasks to manage multiple programs efficiently. (Tasks can be paused to free up resources.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Interrupt (verb): to break the continuity of something.

    • Please do not interrupt me while I am speaking. (Do not stop my speech.)

  • Interruption (noun): the act of breaking in or causing a break.

    • The phone call caused an interruption in our meeting. (A break in the meeting.)

  • Uninterruptible (adjective): not capable of being interrupted.

    • The server has an uninterruptible power supply to prevent data loss. (Power cannot be cut.)
Synonyms
  • Pausable: able to be stopped temporarily.
  • Breakable: capable of being broken or interrupted (less common in this context).
  • Stopable: able to be halted.
Related Idioms
  • "Interruptible flow": in economics or logistics, a process that can be paused without major consequences.
    • The supply chain has an interruptible flow for non-urgent goods. (Deliveries can be delayed.)
Phrasal Verbs

  • Interrupt with: to break into something using a specific action or word.

    • He interrupted with a sudden question. (He broke into the conversation by asking.)

  • Interrupt in: to stop someone while they are doing something.

    • She interrupted him in the middle of his sentence. (She stopped him mid-speech.)