Connect vs. Interconnect: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on October 5, 2023
Connect means to join or link two things, while interconnect implies a more intricate or mutual linking between multiple components or systems.
Key Differences
Connect and interconnect, while similar, have nuanced differences in their use and implication. The term "connect" is versatile and broadly denotes the act of joining two or more elements or entities. Whether it's people, devices, or ideas, "connect" portrays the action of establishing a relationship or link. For instance, one might connect their phone to a Wi-Fi network.
Interconnect, on the other hand, often conveys a deeper, reciprocal, or mutual linkage. It's not just about linking two things but implies a more complex or two-way relationship. When systems interconnect, they typically share resources, data, or functionalities, enhancing the perception of a networked and integrated relation.
In technology, for instance, while devices can connect to a network, they interconnect when sharing and reciprocating data seamlessly. Thus, "interconnect" tends to be used in scenarios where there's a broader, more intricate linking between multiple components.
In essence, while both terms revolve around the idea of linking or joining, "connect" is more general, and "interconnect" hints at a more intricate, often two-way or mutual, connection.
Comparison Chart
Definition
To join or link two things.
To link in a mutual manner or reciprocally.
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Implies
A basic joining or linking.
A more intricate or mutual linking.
Common Usage
Broad and versatile.
Specific to mutual or complex linkages.
Examples
Devices connect to a network.
Systems interconnect for data sharing.
Grammar/Parts of Speech
Often used as a verb, sometimes as a noun.
Primarily used as a verb.
Connect and Interconnect Definitions
Connect
To join or bring together.
Please connect the dots in the picture.
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Interconnect
To link together in a mutual manner.
The two buildings are interconnected by a bridge.
Connect
To establish communication.
I'll connect you to the manager.
Interconnect
To establish mutual data sharing between devices.
These servers are interconnect to optimize data retrieval.
Connect
To relate or associate.
It's hard to connect the two events without more evidence.
Interconnect
To join systems where each affects the other.
The lakes are interconnected, affecting each other's water levels.
Connect
To join a network or system.
My computer won't connect to the internet.
Interconnect
To weave or mesh in a networked manner.
Global telecommunication systems interconnect to provide seamless service.
Connect
To transit between transportation methods.
I have to connect flights in Chicago.
Interconnect
To establish a two-way or reciprocal relationship.
The theories interconnect, reinforcing each other's principles.
Connect
To join or fasten together
A bridge that connects the island with the mainland.
Interconnect
To be connected with each other
The two buildings interconnect.
Connect
To associate or consider as related
No reason to connect the two events.
Interconnect
To connect reciprocally
Tried to interconnect the two theories.
Connect
To join to or by means of a communications circuit
Please connect me to the number in San Diego. Her computer is connected to the internet.
Interconnect
(transitive) To connect to one another.
The Internet interconnects a set of networks.
Connect
To plug in (an electrical cord or device) to an outlet.
Interconnect
(electronics) An interconnection.
Connect
To become joined or united
Two streams connecting to form a river.
Interconnect
To join together; to connect with one another.
Connect
To be scheduled so as to provide continuing service, as between airplanes or buses.
Interconnect
To become connected with one another.
Connect
To establish a rapport or relationship; relate
The candidate failed to connect with the voters.
Interconnect
Be interwoven or interconnected;
The bones are interconnected via the muscle
Connect
(Sports) To hit or play a ball or puck successfully
The winger connected for two goals.
Interconnect
Cause to be interconnected or interwoven
Connect
To join (to another object): to attach, or to be intended to attach or capable of attaching, to another object.
I think this piece connects to that piece over there.
Connect
To join: to attach, or to be intended to attach or capable of attaching, to each other.
Both roads have the same name, but they don't connect: they're on opposite sides of the river, and there's no bridge there.
Connect
To arrive at an intended target; to land.
When that roundhouse kick connected with his temple it sent him flying across the room.
Connect
To join (two other objects), or to join (one object) to (another object): to be a link between two objects, thereby attaching them to each other.
The new railroad will connect the northern part of the state to the southern part.
Connect
To join (two other objects), or to join (one object) to (another object): to take one object and attach it to another.
I connected the printer to the computer, but I couldn't get it work.
Connect
To join an electrical or telephone line to a circuit or network.
When the technician connects my house, I'll be able to access the internet.
Connect
To associate; to establish a relation between.
I didn't connect my lost jewelry with the news of an area cat burglar until the police contacted me.
Connect
To make a travel connection; to switch from one means of transport to another as part of the same trip.
I'm flying to London where I connect with a flight heading to Hungary.
Connect
(slang) A drug dealer.
Connect
To join, or fasten together, as by something intervening; to associate; to combine; to unite or link together; to establish a bond or relation between.
He fills, he bounds, connects and equals all.
A man must see the connection of each intermediate idea with those that it connects before he can use it in a syllogism.
Connect
To associate (a person or thing, or one's self) with another person, thing, business, or affair.
Connect
To establish a communication link; - used with with; as, his telephone didn't answer, so I connected with him by email.
Connect
To electronically or mechanically link (a device) to another device, or to link a device to a common communication line; - used with with; as, the installer connected our telephones on Monday; I connected my VCR to the TV set by myself; the plumber connected a shut-off valve to my gas line.
Connect
To join, unite, or cohere; to have a close relation; as, one line of railroad connects with another; one argument connects with another.
Connect
Connect, fasten, or put together two or more pieces;
Can you connect the two loudspeakers?
Tie the ropes together
Link arms
Connect
Make a logical or causal connection;
I cannot connect these two pieces of evidence in my mind
Colligate these facts
I cannot relate these events at all
Connect
Be or become joined or united or linked;
The two streets connect to become a highway
Our paths joined
The travelers linked up again at the airport
Connect
Join by means of communication equipment;
The telephone company finally put in lines to connect the towns in this area
Connect
Land on or hit solidly;
The brick connected on her head, knocking her out
Connect
Join for the purpose of communication;
Operator, could you connect me to the Raffles in Singapore?
Connect
Be scheduled so as to provide continuing service, as in transportation;
The local train does not connect with the Amtrak train
The planes don't connect and you will have to wait for four hours
Connect
Establish a rapport or relationship;
The President of this university really connects with the faculty
Connect
Establish communication with someone;
Did you finally connect with your long-lost cousin?
Connect
Plug into an outlet;
Please plug in the toaster!
Connect the TV so we can watch the football game tonight
Connect
Hit or play a ball successfully;
The batter connected for a home run
FAQs
In tech, what does "connect" usually imply?
Often, joining a device to a network or system.
Can "connect" imply a physical joining?
Yes, like connecting puzzle pieces.
And "interconnect"?
It implies a mutual or reciprocal linking of multiple entities.
Can two cities be connected?
Yes, by roads, flights, or communication means.
Is "interconnect" a more recent term?
It's not necessarily newer but has become prominent with networked technologies.
What's the basic definition of "connect"?
"Connect" means to join or link two entities.
How about "interconnect"?
It can, like interconnected rooms in a building.
Can they be interconnected?
Yes, especially if they share mutual facilities or networks.
Is "connect" broader in usage?
Yes, it's versatile and used in many contexts.
Is "interconnect" common in emotional contexts?
Less so; it's more technical or physical in implication.
When should I use "interconnect"?
When implying a complex or mutual connection.
Is there a term like "interconnector"?
Yes, often used in contexts like power grids where systems interconnect.
Can ideas interconnect?
They can, especially when they reinforce or depend on each other.
Do connectors connect?
Yes, they are tools or devices facilitating a connection.
Is "connect" often used in telecommunications?
Yes, like connecting a call.
Can you connect ideas?
Yes, it means to relate or associate them.
How about "interconnect" in telecommunications?
It can refer to telecom networks that are interlinked.
Can "connect" imply emotional bonding?
Absolutely, like connecting with someone emotionally.
And "interconnect" in tech?
Implies devices or systems sharing and reciprocating data.
Which is more specific in its implication?
"Interconnect" typically implies a more intricate or mutual connection.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
