intermediaries

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'intermediaries' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone or something that acts as a mediator between two or more parties, or to refer to a substance that is produced in a reaction, but is not itself an end product or reactant. For example, "The intermediaries that the lawyer arranged between the parties served to help build trust and facilitate a mutually beneficial outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They do not have to rely upon civil servants or intermediaries to pass on their views".

The Guardian

The indictment alleges: "Soon after receiving these wire transfers, the defendant Jack Warner caused a substantial portion of the funds to be diverted for his personal use," which included laundering the money through intermediaries.

The Guardian - Sport

Fellow pupils of both sexes are recruited by pimps to play the role of intermediaries.

The Guardian

"As ever with him, you dance through intermediaries," one source said.

The Guardian

Ofcom said that "new intermediaries" means any new platform, service or device that might "sit between" a PSB and the audience.

The Guardian

Through European intermediaries, there have been informal negotiations between the pro-Kiev authorities in Donetsk and figures within the Russian government and there is confidence that Russia will not attempt a direct intervention.

The Guardian

Launching its third major review of the sector, Ofcom said it will look at "new intermediaries which control platforms" – presumably firms such as Netflix, Amazon and Apple – "including their control of potentially valuable direct relationships with audiences".

The Guardian

This had been the product of several months of contacts through intermediaries who contacted Real IRA members with a view to establishing a link.

The Guardian

Third, Barclays will improve the capacity of local institutions, groups and financial intermediaries to provide relevant financial services to Katine.

The Guardian

Over the long term the evidence suggests that the average investor would be better off taking the cheaper option.Because active managers charge higher fees, they can reward intermediaries such as financial advisers and brokers with commissions when they persuade clients to put money into their funds.

The Economist

But estate agents, record labels and a whole host of other intermediaries are still around.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "intermediaries", clearly define who or what they are connecting to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify the parties involved and the purpose of the mediation.

Common error

Avoid using "intermediaries" without specifying the type of role they play. Instead of saying "we need more intermediaries", be specific: "we need more financial "advisors", "brokers", or "consultants" to facilitate these transactions."

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "intermediaries" is as a plural noun. It refers to multiple entities that act as a connection or mediator between two or more parties. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

31%

Science

31%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "intermediaries" functions as a plural noun, denoting entities facilitating interactions between parties. Ludwig AI confirms the proper and frequent usage of this term. Common contexts include News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science. When writing, ensure clarity by specifying the roles and connections of these "intermediaries". Related terms include "mediators", "brokers", and "agents". Avoid overgeneralization by specifying the type of intermediary involved. As a final tip, remember that “intermediaries” often connects different parties.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mediators

Refers specifically to those who resolve disputes or facilitate agreements. It is slightly more specific than "intermediaries".

facilitators

Emphasizes making a process easier or smoother, highlighting a specific aspect of what "intermediaries" do.

go-betweens

An informal term for someone who carries messages or arranges meetings, similar in function but less formal than "intermediaries".

brokers

Implies acting as a link in financial transactions or negotiations, a more limited context than "intermediaries".

liaisons

Highlights the role of establishing and maintaining communication between groups, a specific type of intermediary role.

negotiators

Focuses on the act of bargaining and reaching agreements, which may be a task performed by "intermediaries".

agents

Suggests representing someone's interests, which is one function "intermediaries" might perform but is not all-encompassing.

middlemen

Often carries a negative connotation, implying unnecessary involvement or inflated costs; similar in function but with a different tone than "intermediaries".

conduits

Suggests a passive role in transmitting information or resources, less active than some roles that "intermediaries" might play.

channels

Refers to methods or systems for communication or distribution, rather than individuals, representing a slightly different perspective on the role of "intermediaries".

FAQs

How do I use "intermediaries" in a sentence?

You can use "intermediaries" to refer to entities or individuals who act as a go-between in negotiations, transactions, or communications. For example, "The negotiations were conducted through trusted "mediators"."

What are some alternatives to the word "intermediaries"?

Depending on the context, you could use "brokers", "mediators", "agents", or "go-betweens" instead of "intermediaries".

What is the difference between "intermediaries" and "middlemen"?

"Intermediaries" is a more neutral and formal term referring to those who facilitate interactions between parties. "Middlemen" often carries a negative connotation, suggesting unnecessary involvement or inflated costs. The term "facilitators" is used when a neutral perspective is needed.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the term "intermediaries"?

The term "intermediaries" is appropriate in formal, business, or legal contexts when referring to entities that connect different parties. This could include financial "brokers", communication "liaisons", or diplomatic "negotiators".