According to its Latin roots, interject ought to mean literally "throw between". For most of the word's history, however, the only things that have been interjected have been comments dropped suddenly into a conversation. Interjections are often humorous, and sometimes even insulting, and the best interjections are so quick that the conversation isn't even interrupted.
introduce is a general term for bringing or placing a thing or person into a group or body already in existence.
introduced a new topic into the conversation
insert implies putting into a fixed or open space between or among.
inserted a clause in the contract
insinuate implies introducing gradually or by gentle pressure.
insinuated himself into the group
interpolate applies to the inserting of something extraneous or spurious.
interpolated her own comments into the report
intercalate suggests an intrusive inserting of something in an existing series or sequence.
new chapters intercalated with the old
interpose suggests inserting an obstruction or cause of delay.
interpose barriers to communication
interject implies an abrupt or forced introduction.
interjected a question
Example Sentences
“That's an interesting idea,” he interjected, “but I don't think you've considered all of the details.” She listened to us, interjecting remarks every so often. If I may interject, I have things I'd like to add.
Recent Examples on the WebHolder said Rinker — unlike other advocates in the office — would interject her thoughts on behalf of the families in strategy meetings, anticipating any financial or housing needs, as well as the impact of trauma and grief. Keith L. Alexander, Washington Post, 18 Aug. 2022 Feinstein is almost always trailed by staffers while walking around the Capitol, and staffers frequently interject on her behalf when the senator gets questions from reporters. Jennifer Haberkorn, Los Angeles Times, 14 Apr. 2022 The cross examination became so tense that the judge had to interject. Arpan Lobo, Detroit Free Press, 31 Mar. 2022 The witnesses also said that Encinas appeared to be interested in the victim and would often interject himself into conversations that the woman would be having with others, the court documents state. Haleigh Kochanski, The Arizona Republic, 25 Mar. 2022 Louisville forward Emily Engstler, listening to Van Lith's soliloquy, was moved to interject. Tim Sullivan, The Courier-Journal, 21 Mar. 2022 Lopez tried to interject questions and explain his side in fits and starts but was constantly interrupted by the officer. Kristina Davis, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Mar. 2022 But there never seems to be a good moment to interject. Ew Staff, EW.com, 25 Jan. 2022 With a long career as a journalist, Vieira didn’t often interject her opinion into her work. Joanne Rosa, ABC News, 14 Sep. 2021 See More
Word History
Etymology
Latin interjectus, past participle of intericere, from inter- + jacere to throw — more at jet