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How to Say "interrupting" in Spanish

English → Spanish

cortando

/kor-TAHN-doh//koɾˈtando/

verbB1general
Use 'cortando' when the interruption involves a break in communication, a signal, or a continuous flow of something like a conversation or a video stream.
A smartphone with a jagged, broken line across the screen representing a failed signal.

Examples

Te oigo mal, se está cortando la comunicación.

I can't hear you well, the connection is breaking up.

rompiendo

/rrom-pyén-do//romˈpjendo/

verb (gerund)B1general
Choose 'rompiendo' when the interruption is characterized by breaking a state of quietness or silence, often with noise.
A small character deliberately stepping over a low, visible wooden fence marking a boundary line, symbolizing the violation of a rule.

Examples

Están rompiendo el silencio con su música alta.

They are breaking the silence with their loud music.

Ella está rompiendo con todas las tradiciones familiares.

She is breaking with all the family traditions.

interruptor

/een-teh-rroop-TORE//interupˈtoɾ/

adjectiveC1formal
Employ 'interruptor' to describe something that actively causes a disruption or halt in a process, experiment, or planned activity.
A large boulder blocking a small stream of water.

Examples

Un factor interruptor detuvo el experimento.

An interrupting factor stopped the experiment.

Adjective Agreement

As an adjective, it changes to 'interruptora' if the thing it describes is feminine. For example: 'una señal interruptora'.

Focus on the 'Flow' vs. 'Silence' Distinction

Learners often confuse 'cortando' and 'rompiendo' because both imply a break. Remember: 'cortando' is for breaking a flow or communication (like a phone call dropping), while 'rompiendo' specifically refers to breaking silence, usually with sound.

Related Translations

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