an intermediary between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an intermediary between" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a person or entity that acts as a mediator or facilitator in a relationship or transaction between two parties. Example: "The organization serves as an intermediary between the government and local communities to ensure effective communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I kind of grew up as an intermediary between worlds.

The New York Times

Rather than lending its own money, First Marblehead acted as an intermediary between banks and colleges.

The New York Times

A broker is an intermediary between a dealer and the final user of the vehicle.

The New York Times

First Genetic Trust, he said, will act as an intermediary between researchers and patients.

The New York Times

But where Half.com really excels is as an intermediary between buyer and seller.

The New York Times - Tech

The Nairobi Global Center will serve as an intermediary between Teachers College and Oxfam IBIS.

Columbia University

The deaconess functioned as an intermediary between female believers and the male clergy.

University of Pennsylvania

Just Eat acts as an intermediary between restaurants and diners who want a takeaway.

The Times

The Egyptians have traditionally served as an intermediary between us, the Israelis, and the Palestinians.

The Guardian

The FBI acts as an intermediary between intelligence agencies, including the NSA, and Internet companies.

MIT Technology Review

He did act as an intermediary between his brother and J. Edgar Hoover's perpetual paranoia.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an intermediary between", clearly define the two parties being connected to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The translator served as an intermediary between the author and the international audience."

Common error

Avoid vague statements where the entities connected by "an intermediary between" are unclear. Instead of saying "The system acted as an intermediary", specify, "The system acted as an intermediary between the user and the database."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an intermediary between" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically acting as an adjective modifying a noun. It describes the role of someone or something that connects two distinct entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an intermediary between" is a versatile and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to describe a connecting entity. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and common usage. Its application spans various contexts, from news and media to science and academia, highlighting its role in facilitating communication and connections. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the entities being linked. Consider alternatives like "a mediator for" or "a liaison between" to fine-tune the nuance of your description.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a mediator for

This alternative focuses more on the role of resolving disputes or facilitating communication. It emphasizes a more active role compared to just being a link.

a bridge between

This highlights the role of connecting two disparate entities, emphasizing overcoming a gap or separation.

a liaison between

This term emphasizes a formal connection, often used in professional or diplomatic contexts. It implies a coordinated relationship.

a facilitator between

This emphasizes the role of making things easier or smoother for the parties involved, focusing on enabling interaction.

a go-between for

This phrase is more informal and suggests a less official role, often implying a simpler or more direct connection.

a broker between

This term is often used in business contexts, implying negotiation and deal-making between parties.

a link between

This alternative emphasizes the connection itself, rather than the person or entity facilitating it. It's less about active mediation.

a channel between

This suggests a pathway for communication or exchange, focusing on the flow rather than the intermediary's actions.

a connection between

This alternative highlights the simple existence of a relationship, without specifying the nature or purpose of the intermediary.

an interface between

This suggests a more technical or systematic connection, often used in computing or engineering contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "an intermediary between" in a sentence?

Use "an intermediary between" to describe someone or something that facilitates communication or interaction between two parties. For example, "The diplomat acted as "an intermediary between" the two nations during the peace talks."

What are some alternatives to "an intermediary between"?

You can use alternatives like "a mediator for", "a liaison between", or "a go-between for" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "intermediary" or "mediator"?

"Intermediary" is a more general term for someone who facilitates interaction, while "mediator" specifically implies someone who helps resolve disputes. The best choice depends on whether the context involves conflict resolution or simply connection.

What is the difference between "an intermediary between" and "a facilitator between"?

While both facilitate interaction, ""an intermediary between"" simply connects parties, while "a facilitator between" actively makes the process easier or smoother. A facilitator takes a more proactive role.