Inconvenience
/ˌɪnkənˈviːniəns/
Definitions
2 meaningsA state or situation that causes difficulty, trouble, or discomfort.
/ˌɪnkənˈviːniəns/
A thing that causes trouble or difficulty; a situation causing minor trouble or difficulty.
The delay at the airport caused significant inconvenience for the passengers.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to get to your friend's house, but the road is closed due to construction. That's an inconvenience – something that makes things harder or more annoying than they should be. Like when the bus is late and you miss your favorite TV show.
👶 For kids: When something is a little bit annoying or makes things harder.
More Examples
I'm sorry for any inconvenience this schedule change may cause.
The road closures resulted in numerous inconveniences for commuters.
How It's Used
"The loud construction was a major inconvenience to residents."
"We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the power outage."
To cause trouble, difficulty, or discomfort to someone or something.
/ˌɪnkənˈviːniəns/
To cause someone trouble or difficulty; to cause inconvenience to.
I don't want to inconvenience you, but could you help me move?
💡 Simply: Imagine you need to borrow a book and your friend is not home. You have to wait which is an inconvenience, or makes it difficult. Or you need a ride but your parents can't drive you.
👶 For kids: To make something a little harder or annoying for someone.
More Examples
The construction work is inconveniencing the local businesses.
We apologize for any trouble or inconvenience the changes may cause.
How It's Used
"We are sorry to inconvenience you with the new policy."
"I hope my visit does not inconvenience you."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
at your earliest convenience
As soon as it is possible or easy for you to do something.
"Please return the form to us at your earliest convenience."
for the inconvenience
Used to express apology for any difficulty that may be caused.
"We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience."
From Old French *inconvénient* (unsuitable, inconvenient), from Latin *inconveniens* (inconvenient, unsuitable), from *in-* (not) + *convenire* (to come together, be suitable).
The word 'inconvenience' has been used since the 15th century, initially referring to something unsuitable or inappropriate before evolving to its present meaning of causing difficulty.
Memory tip
Think of 'in-convenience' as something that is 'not convenient', causing a problem.
Practice
Word Origin
Prefix: in- (not)
Suffix: -ence (state or quality)