Synonyms for

Disrupt

Verb / dɪˈsrʌpt / Another word for disrupt — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To interrupt or cause disorder or turmoil.

Synonyms & similar words

cutoff interrupt breakup interrupt disturb upset derail unsettle interfere obstruct hamper hinder impede delay ruin spoil

Synonyms by register

Formal

interrupt disorganize derange upset

Informal

shake up mess up throw off rock the boat

Literary

rend shatter unsettle

Antonyms

aid assist support maintain preserve stabilize uphold

Common collocations

  • disrupt the market
  • disrupt the flow
  • disrupt the service
  • disrupt the meeting
  • disrupt the system
  • disrupt the peace
  • disrupt the economy

Word family

noun disruption
verb disrupt
adjective disruptive
adverb disruptively

Usage note

Often used in business contexts to describe innovation that significantly changes a market. Can also refer to interrupting a process or event.

Example sentences

  1. The storm disrupted power lines and left us without electricity.
  2. The barking dog disrupted my sleep and kept me awake all night.
  3. The construction noise outside disrupted my work and made it hard to focus.
  4. The teacher had to disrupt the fight in the playground.
  5. The new technology is disrupting traditional business models.

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