Meaning of Word
Intermediate refers to something or someone that is in the middle stage, level, or position between two extremes, such as beginner and advanced, or start and finish.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Situated between two points, stages, or levels in time, place, or development.
- Having a moderate level of knowledge or skill, typically between beginner and advanced.
- Acting as a mediator or link between two parties, things, or conditions.
History and Origin
The word intermediate comes from the Latin intermediatus, derived from:
- Inter- (meaning “between”)
- Mediatus (meaning “in the middle”).
First recorded in English around the 15th century, it was originally used in academic and scientific contexts to describe stages or levels of progress.
Detailed Explanation
Intermediate can describe a variety of contexts, including skills, processes, objects, and positions. For instance, an intermediate learner has surpassed the basics but has not yet mastered advanced concepts. Similarly, an intermediate step in a process represents a necessary middle phase leading to the final result. It can also describe a mediatory role, such as someone facilitating communication between two parties.
Example Sentences
- She is taking an intermediate Spanish class to improve her language skills.
- The trail is ideal for hikers with intermediate experience.
- His position as a manager is intermediate between staff and executives.
- The intermediate step in the experiment involves heating the solution.
- The teacher used intermediate-level exercises to challenge the students.
- This book is suitable for intermediate readers who have mastered the basics.
- The company created an intermediate role to bridge the gap between departments.
- An intermediate layer of foam was added for extra comfort.
- The negotiations involved an intermediate party to ensure fairness.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Moderate – Of average or middle level in quality or quantity.
- Mediocre – Positioned in the middle but often implying less excellence.
- Transitional – Relating to a stage of change or development.
- Midway – Situated halfway between two points.
- Median – Located at the middle point of a range.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Intermediate-level – Refers to a moderate stage in skill or knowledge.
- Mediator – Someone who facilitates communication or resolution between parties.
- Middle – Being at the center or midpoint.
- Bridge – Something that connects two sides or stages.
- Intermediary – Acting as a link between two parties or things.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Intervene – To come between as a way to mediate or alter events.
- Intermediate stage – A necessary step in a process or development.
- Intermediate level – A category of learning or skill beyond basic but not advanced.
- Intermediary role – A position that connects or facilitates between two sides.
- Intermediate phase – A middle period within a sequence or timeline.
Antonyms
- Advanced – At a higher or more developed stage.
- Elementary – Relating to the basics or beginning stages.
- Initial – Occurring at the start.
- Basic – Simple or fundamental.
- Ultimate – Referring to the final or most advanced stage.
