Definition

Noun: - A person who acts as a link between parties in a negotiation or dispute: An intermediator is a neutral third party who facilitates communication and negotiation between two or more other parties who are in disagreement or seeking an agreement. Their role is to help the parties reach a mutual understanding or settlement.

Usage

• The word "intermediator" is a formal term, most commonly used in contexts of diplomacy, business, legal disputes, and formal negotiations.
• It describes a person whose specific function is to mediate or act as a go-between.
• It is often used interchangeably with "mediator," though "intermediator" can sometimes emphasize the linking or connecting role more strongly.

Examples

• As a subject:
  • The UN appointed a skilled intermediator to facilitate talks between the two nations.
• As an object:
  • Both sides in the labor dispute agreed to hire an independent intermediator.
• With a prepositional phrase:
  • She served as an intermediator in the complex merger discussions.

Advanced Usage

• "To act as an intermediator": This phrase explicitly describes taking on the role of a mediator.
  • The retired judge was asked to act as an intermediator in the community conflict.
• The term can be used in both singular and plural forms ("intermediators").

Variants and Related Words

• Intermediary (noun): A more common synonym for intermediator, meaning a person who acts as a link between people or groups. It can also refer to an intermediate stage.
• Mediator (noun): A person who attempts to make people involved in a conflict come to an agreement; a very close synonym.
• Intermediation (noun): The process of acting as an intermediator.
• Intermediate (adjective): Coming between two things in time, place, order, or character. (Note: This is an adjective, not a direct synonym for the person).

Synonyms

• Mediator: A person who attempts to make people involved in a conflict come to an agreement.
• Go-between: A person who acts as a messenger or negotiator between two parties (slightly less formal).
• Arbiter: A person who settles a dispute or has ultimate authority in a matter.
• Conciliator: A person who acts as a mediator, especially in a labor dispute.
• Facilitator: A person or thing that makes an action or process easier, which can include mediation.

Related Phrases

• To serve as an intermediator: To perform the duties of a mediator.
  • His experience in international law qualified him to serve as an intermediator.
• Through an intermediator: Indicating that communication or negotiation was conducted via a third party.
  • The initial contact was made through an intermediator to ensure confidentiality.

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning of "intermediator" is centered on the function of linking and facilitating communication between separate, often disagreeing, parties. It implies an active role in the negotiation process rather than just being a passive channel.

Noun

1. a negotiator who acts as a link between parties