go-between
/'goubi,twi:n/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: - An intermediary or messenger: A person who acts as a link or negotiator between two or more parties, especially in order to facilitate communication or an agreement. - A mediator: Someone who intervenes between people or groups to help settle differences or arrange deals.
Usage
The word "go-between" is a countable noun. It is typically used to describe a person whose role is to facilitate communication or transactions between parties who may not be dealing directly with each other. It often carries a neutral or slightly informal tone.
Examples
- The diplomat served as a go-between for the two warring nations during the peace talks.
- In the past, a matchmaker acted as a go-between for families arranging a marriage.
- We needed a trusted go-between to deliver the sensitive message to the other company.
Advanced Usage
- "to act as a go-between": To perform the role of an intermediary.
- She agreed to act as a go-between for her feuding friends.
- Historical/Formal Context: The term can be used in historical contexts (e.g., royal courts, espionage) or modern business/political negotiations.
- The spy was used as a go-between for the intelligence agencies.
Variants and Related Words
- Intermediary (n): A more formal synonym for a person who acts as a link.
- Mediator (n): Specifically emphasizes helping to resolve disputes.
- Liaison (n): A person who facilitates communication and cooperation between groups.
- Messenger (n): A person who carries a message, but not necessarily one who negotiates.
- Middleman (n): Often used in commercial contexts, can imply someone who buys from producers and sells to retailers or consumers.
Synonyms
- Intermediary
- Mediator
- Intercessor
- Middleman
- Broker
- Agent
- Emissary
Antonyms
- Principal (one of the main parties involved)
- Adversary (an opponent in a conflict, not a linker)
Related Phrases and Idioms
- "Act as an intermediary": A more formal way to express the same idea as being a go-between.
- The UN official was asked to act as an intermediary.
- "Serve as a conduit": To function as a channel for information or communication.
- The secure server served as a conduit for the encrypted data.
Noun
- a negotiator who acts as a link between parties