Run interference
verb
To use tactics to stop somebody from tackling or disrupting a plan.
I'll run interference so you can talk to her alone.
Often appears as...
- run interference for someone
- trying to run interference
Usage tips
Approving
Idiomatic, Colloquial
verb
In American Football, to block or distract defensive players to clear a path for a teammate.
The wide receiver ran interference for the running back.
Often appears as...
- she ran interference
- running interference for their teammate
Usage tips
Neutral
Technical
verb
To use tactics to stop somebody from tackling or disrupting a plan.
I'll run interference so you can talk to her alone.
Often appears as...
- run interference for someone
- trying to run interference
Usage tips
Approving
Idiomatic, Colloquial
verb
In American Football, to block or distract defensive players to clear a path for a teammate.
The wide receiver ran interference for the running back.
Often appears as...
- she ran interference
- running interference for their teammate
Usage tips
Neutral
Technical
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Idiomatic Usage
Understand it's not about running or actual interference; it's a metaphor for obstructing others.
Tony will run interference while we set up the surprise party.
Pro Tip 2/3Secretive Support
It implies helping someone secretly, so the opposition doesn't realize they're being misled or distracted.
Keep them busy; I'll run interference so she doesn't see the gift.
Pro Tip 3/3Subtle Tactics
It involves subtle or strategic actions, not necessarily obvious or confrontational ones.
I'll run interference with small talk while you sneak out.
Pro Tip 1/3Idiomatic Usage
Understand it's not about running or actual interference; it's a metaphor for obstructing others.
Tony will run interference while we set up the surprise party.
Pro Tip 2/3Secretive Support
It implies helping someone secretly, so the opposition doesn't realize they're being misled or distracted.
Keep them busy; I'll run interference so she doesn't see the gift.
Pro Tip 3/3Subtle Tactics
It involves subtle or strategic actions, not necessarily obvious or confrontational ones.
I'll run interference with small talk while you sneak out.
Pro Tip 1/3Idiomatic Usage
Understand it's not about running or actual interference; it's a metaphor for obstructing others.
Tony will run interference while we set up the surprise party.
Pro Tip 2/3Secretive Support
It implies helping someone secretly, so the opposition doesn't realize they're being misled or distracted.
Keep them busy; I'll run interference so she doesn't see the gift.
Pro Tip 3/3Subtle Tactics
It involves subtle or strategic actions, not necessarily obvious or confrontational ones.
I'll run interference with small talk while you sneak out.
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