meddle

/'medl/

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Sure! Let's break down the word "meddle" together.

Definition:

The word "meddle" is a verb that means to intrude in other people's affairs or business or to interfere without being wanted. When someone meddles, they are getting involved in something that doesn't concern them, often causing annoyance.

Usage Instructions:

• "Meddle" is usually used when someone is interfering in situations where their involvement is not needed or wanted.
• It is often used in a negative way, suggesting that the interference is unwelcome.

Example:

• “Please don’t meddle in my personal life; I can handle it myself!”
• “She always meddles in her friends’ relationships, giving advice they didn’t ask for.”

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "meddle" can imply a deeper level of interference, suggesting that the person not only gets involved but also tries to change things. For example: - “The government should not meddle in the affairs of private businesses.”

Word Variants:

• The noun form is "meddler," which refers to a person who meddles.
  • Example: “He is a notorious meddler, always trying to fix problems that aren’t his.”
• The adjective form is "meddlesome," which describes someone who tends to meddle.
  • Example: “Her meddlesome nature often leads to conflicts.”

Different Meaning:

In some contexts, "meddle" can be used in a more playful or less serious way, but it usually still carries a negative connotation. For example: - “Stop meddling with the TV remote! You’re going to break it!”

Synonyms:

Some synonyms for "meddle" include: - Interfere - Intrude - Tamper - Intervene - Pry

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While "meddle" itself doesn’t have specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to it, you might encounter phrases that convey a similar meaning: - "Mind your own business" - This is a common phrase that tells someone to stop interfering in others' affairs. - "Stay out of it" - This suggests that someone should not get involved in a situation.

Summary:

So, to sum it up, "meddle" means to interfere in someone else's business without permission, and it's generally not appreciated. It can be used in various contexts to describe unwanted involvement in personal matters or other situations.

Academic

Verb

1. intrude in other people's affairs or business; interfere unwantedly
   • Don't meddle in my affairs!

Synonyms

• tamper