adj
Uncommon
intrusive
ihn-TROO-sihv
Intrusive (adj) means tending to intrude; unwelcome or disruptive. Example: “The tabloids asked intrusive questions about her private life.”
adj
1
Tending to intrude; unwelcome or disruptive.
"The tabloids asked intrusive questions about her private life."
"He found the constant notifications intrusive."
How to use intrusive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishPushing in where you're not wanted, often violating someone's privacy or space.
Common pairings
intrusive thoughts
intrusive questions
intrusive advertising
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Word forms
- Plural
- intrusives
- Comparative
- more intrusive
- Superlative
- most intrusive
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The tabloids asked _____ questions about her private life.
Etymology
A back-formation from intrusion, + -ive.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
protrusive
extrusive
unintrusive
Related words
Rhymes for intrusive
See all rhymes for intrusive →Frequently asked questions
What does “intrusive” mean?
The word “intrusive” means tending to intrude; unwelcome or disruptive. In plain terms, pushing in where you're not wanted, often violating someone's privacy or space.
How do you pronounce “intrusive”?
“Intrusive” is pronounced ihn-TROO-sihv (/ɪnˈtɹuːsɪv/ in IPA).
How do you use “intrusive” in a sentence?
Here is “intrusive” used in a sentence: “The tabloids asked intrusive questions about her private life.”
What is another word for “intrusive”?
Words with a similar meaning to “intrusive” include unwelcome, disturbing, uninvited and interrupting.
What is the opposite of “intrusive”?
The opposite of “intrusive” — its antonyms — is unintrusive.
What part of speech is “intrusive”?
“Intrusive” is an adjective.
Is “intrusive” a common word?
“Intrusive” is an uncommon word in modern English.