interface
To interact or communicate with another system, person, or process
Examples
In a meeting
“Our API will interface directly with their payment processing system.”
Over coffee
“I prefer not to interface with difficult people before I've had my coffee.”
Why this word
connection
Interface specifies the point or system where two things meet and interact, not just any connection
boundary
Boundary marks a division; interface emphasizes the interactive surface where exchange occurs
link
Link is generic; interface describes the specific mechanism or surface enabling interaction between systems
Usage tip
Originally technical (computer interfaces), now used broadly for any connection or interaction point. As a verb, it's particularly useful in technical contexts.
Etymology
From inter- (between) + face (surface); coined in 1880s for common boundary
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Related words
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly in few words.
ambiguous
Open to more than one interpretation; not clear or decided.
convey
To communicate or make an idea, feeling, or meaning known.
reiterate
To say something again for emphasis or clarity.
paraphrase
To restate something in different words to make it clearer or shorter.