A survey (Business Spotlight, 2009) asking German businesspeople about their problems with native speakers highlights an interesting point: 41% of the respondents in the survey said they “found it difficult to interrupt discussions to give an opinion.”
How many ideas are we missing by not hearing those opinions? When communication is difficult, the second language learner tends to blame themself. This often leads to lower self-confidence in that language as well as the possible fear of ridicule, both of which motivate people to be quiet. Clever solutions to important problems are unintentionally silenced.
Here are some expressions to help you feel more confident and able to interrupt and express your ideas and opinions.
Reasons to Interrupt
An interruption is basically a pause. When you pause a conversation, you will almost definitely attract attention to yourself, so it's important to make sure that your reason for interrupting will be seen as valid by the group. Giving someone important information, asking a quick question, sharing your opinion on something said, or interrupting to join a conversation are all acceptable reasons for pausing.
Remember as well that interruptions should generally be accompanied by either an apology or permission-seeking question (such as, "Do you mind if I join?"). This is respectful to the speaker you interrupt and all those listening.
Giving someone information
I'm sorry to interrupt but you're needed...
I apologise for the interruption but I had to quickly let you know that...
Pardon me, I have...[someone waiting, an object/information requested, etc.]
I hope you'll excuse me for interrupting but could I quickly get you to...
Asking a question
I'm sorry for interrupting but I don't quite understand...
Sorry for the interruption but could you repeat...
This will only take a minute. Would you mind telling me...
I apologise for the interruption but I have an important question about...
Alternatively, you can use questions as a polite way of joining a conversation.
Could I jump in?
Could I add something?
Do you mind if I say something?
May I interject?
Sharing your opinion
That makes me think of...
Interesting that you say that because...
What you said about [reference something said] reminds me that...
Your point sounds a lot like...
Do you have any examples or have you ever been in a similar situation?