What does interpose mean?
Interpose means to place oneself or something between other people or things, and by extension to intervene in a dispute or course of events. The word is especially associated with stepping into a disagreement, often as a mediator, although it can also suggest an unwelcome interruption. In legal and political contexts, it may refer to delaying a decision by raising an objection, introducing a condition, or exercising a veto. The expression “interpose oneself” is particularly common, while “interpose an objection” describes formally placing a concern before others. Although the verb is used in both British and American English, it sounds more formal and literary than everyday alternatives such as “insert,” “intervene,” or “mediate.” Its unusual combination of physical placement and figurative intervention makes it useful for describing acts that interrupt or connect opposing parties.
To place oneself or something between other people or things.
"A thin sheet of copper was interposed between the two surfaces."
This physical sense is less common today than the figurative sense but remains standard in formal and technical writing.
To intervene in an activity, dispute, or course of events.
"Several members interposed before the committee reached a decision."
Often used with “oneself,” “himself,” or “herself”; the choice of pronoun can indicate whether the intervention is neutral or intrusive.
To put forward an objection, question, or condition that delays or prevents a decision or action.
"A representative interposed an objection to the proposed amendment."
This sense is especially common in legal, parliamentary, and formal administrative contexts.
From Latin for “to place between,” interpose describes the moment when someone deliberately steps into the space between people, issues, or opposing sides.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does interpose come from?
Interpose comes from Latin interponere, formed from inter- “between” and ponere “to place.” It entered English through French in the 16th century, initially in the sense of placing something between or putting forward an objection. The word later developed figurative meanings involving intervention and mediation, as well as legal and political uses concerning objections or vetoes.
Related word forms
How interpose is actually used
The word is formal and somewhat literary. When used of a person, “interpose oneself” is especially common; it can suggest an unwelcome interruption, although it can also describe a neutral mediating role.
Easily confused with interpose
To impose something is to impose a requirement, rule, or penalty on someone, whereas to interpose is to place oneself or something between others or to intervene in a situation.