B2 adjective Neutral

interface

/ˈɪntərfeɪs/

Relating to the point or surface where two different systems, subjects, or organizations meet and interact. In technical contexts, it describes elements designed to facilitate communication between a user and a machine or between different software components.

Examples

3 of 5
1

The interface design of the new operating system is remarkably intuitive for first-time users.

The visual layout for user interaction in the new operating system is very easy to understand.

2

Standardized interface protocols are essential for ensuring compatibility between different hardware manufacturers.

Standard rules for how systems connect are necessary for making sure different hardware works together.

3

This app has a really clunky interface feel that makes it hard to navigate.

The way this app interacts with the user feels awkward and difficult to move through.

Word Family

Noun
interface
Verb
interface
Adverb
interfacially
Adjective
interfacial
Related
interactivity
💡

Memory Tip

Think of 'inter-' meaning 'between' and 'face' meaning 'side'. It is the 'face' that sits 'between' two different worlds or systems.

Quick Quiz

The development team is working on solving the ____ compatibility issues between the old database and the new software.

Correct!

The correct answer is: interface

Examples

1

The interface design of the new operating system is remarkably intuitive for first-time users.

everyday

The visual layout for user interaction in the new operating system is very easy to understand.

2

Standardized interface protocols are essential for ensuring compatibility between different hardware manufacturers.

formal

Standard rules for how systems connect are necessary for making sure different hardware works together.

3

This app has a really clunky interface feel that makes it hard to navigate.

informal

The way this app interacts with the user feels awkward and difficult to move through.

4

The study examines the interface properties of the polymer when exposed to high-pressure environments.

academic

The research looks at the characteristics of the meeting point of the polymer in high-pressure situations.

5

We are looking for an interface specialist to streamline the communication between our marketing and IT departments.

business

We want a professional who manages connections to improve communication between our two departments.

Word Family

Noun
interface
Verb
interface
Adverb
interfacially
Adjective
interfacial
Related
interactivity

Common Collocations

interface design the visual and functional planning of how a user interacts with a computer
user interface the means by which a person and a computer system interact
interface management the process of managing interactions between different project components
interface protocol a set of rules that allow two systems to communicate
interface cable a physical wire used to connect two electronic devices

Common Phrases

graphical user interface

a visual way of interacting with a computer using items like windows and icons

brain-computer interface

a direct communication pathway between an enhanced or wired brain and an external device

application programming interface

a set of functions allowing applications to access data and interact with external software components

Often Confused With

interface vs interfere

To interfere means to obstruct or get in the way of something, while interface refers to the point of connection or interaction.

interface vs surface

Surface refers to the outer layer of an object, whereas interface specifically refers to the meeting point between two distinct things.

📝

Usage Notes

Though primarily a noun, 'interface' is frequently used as an adjective (attributive noun) in technical and business English to describe things related to connectivity and user experience. Ensure you use it to describe the 'meeting point' rather than just the 'appearance' of something.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners often use 'interface' as a synonym for 'screen'. While a screen contains an interface, the interface is the system of interaction itself, not the physical hardware.

💡

Memory Tip

Think of 'inter-' meaning 'between' and 'face' meaning 'side'. It is the 'face' that sits 'between' two different worlds or systems.

📖

Word Origin

Originating in the mid-19th century from the prefix 'inter-' (between) and the word 'face', originally used in physics to describe the surface forming a common boundary.

Grammar Patterns

Used as an attributive noun before other nouns (e.g., interface issues) Non-gradable when used in a technical sense Commonly follows nouns like 'user' or 'network' to form compound modifiers
🌍

Cultural Context

The term is central to the 'User Experience' (UX) movement in the technology industry, emphasizing human-centered design.

Quick Quiz

The development team is working on solving the ____ compatibility issues between the old database and the new software.

Correct!

The correct answer is: interface

Related Words

intrathermancy

C1

To practice the specialized method of analyzing or predicting the internal heat patterns of a system or organism. In technical or speculative contexts, it involves monitoring internal thermal fluctuations to foresee structural or physiological changes before they manifest externally.

ultradurible

C1

Describes a material or product engineered to withstand extreme wear, pressure, or environmental damage over an exceptionally long period. It denotes a level of resilience and longevity that significantly surpasses standard industry benchmarks for durability.

nonservancy

C1

To fail to observe, preserve, or maintain a specific duty, regulation, or standard, often in a legal or administrative context. It describes the intentional or accidental act of neglecting established protocols or failing to serve a required function.

misnavize

C1

A misnavize is a specific instance of a structural or logic-based error that occurs during the navigation of a complex system or physical space. It describes a situation where a user or traveler is systematically misled by flawed directional cues or interface design.

obgeoacy

C1

Describing a state of persistent, often stubborn adherence to a specific geographical location or spatial boundary. It characterizes an entity's refusal to migrate, adapt, or change its physical position despite external pressures or environmental shifts.

comportance

C1

Comportance is a formal or literary noun describing the way a person carries themselves; it encompasses their physical bearing, behavior, and overall demeanor. It is typically used to evaluate how well an individual adheres to social expectations or maintains dignity in professional or public settings.

microtenter

C1

A specialized laboratory or industrial device used for stretching or holding small samples of fabric, films, or membranes under precise tension. It is typically used in material science to examine how micro-scale materials react to stress and strain.

abhabion

C1

A specialized term referring to a state of temporary suspension or functional dormancy within a biological or mechanical system. It describes a period where growth or operation is paused before transitioning to a subsequent active phase.

interrogist

C1

A person who asks questions or conducts an inquiry, especially one who is skilled in the systematic art of interrogation. It refers to an individual who persistently seeks information or clarification through direct questioning.

deverbary

C1

A specialized dictionary or index of idioms, proverbs, and phrases centered specifically around verbs or derived from verbal roots. It is primarily used in linguistic research and lexicography to categorize and study phraseological expressions.

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