intermediates

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "intermediates" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this word when you want to refer to a group of people or items that are in the middle of two opposite ends, or simply in a middle position. For example: "The intermediates in the debate did their best to find a compromise between the two positions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Briançon has 24km of pistes best suited to beginners and intermediates, but it is also part of the Serre Chevalier resort.

The Guardian - Travel

Its well-groomed pistes suit beginners and intermediates, and a new eight-seater gondola has expanded the lift system.

The Guardian - Travel

"The 40 plates we looked at belonged to two distinct categories of shape without any real intermediates," said.

The Guardian

ALMA can see the microwave traces of such intermediates, and thus gain a better understanding of them.There are also completely new reactions to discover.

The Economist

Whereas a bank intermediates between savers and borrowers by entering into separate transactions with each, with all the risk that entails, M&G is merely a matchmaker, with no "skin in the game".For all their residual worries about shadow banking, regulators like this arrangement, because in some ways it makes the financial system safer.

The Economist

In a lab, these intermediates are often too short-lived to be detectable.

The Economist

BASF, a German chemical giant, estimates that bio-based products account for some €300m ($470m) of sales in such things as "chiral intermediates" (which give the kick to its pesticides).

The Economist

Higher organisms also readily convert glucogenic amino acids (i.e., those that do not yield acetyl coenzyme A as a catabolic product) into TCA cycle intermediates, which are then converted into glucose.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Figure 10 shows, for bacteria that can synthesize 20 amino acids, the way in which they are derived from intermediates of pathways already considered.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They are derived from intermediates of the central metabolic pathways (e.g., Figure 10; 62b]).

Encyclopedia Britannica

First, ammonia is incorporated into the intermediates of metabolic pathways mainly via the glutamate dehydrogenase 28], which proceeds from right to left in biosynthetic reactions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "intermediates" in scientific writing, clearly define which specific compounds or entities you are referring to, as the term can be broad. For example, specify "reaction intermediates" or "metabolic intermediates".

Common error

Don't use "intermediates" without specifying the context. Saying "the intermediates" without further explanation leaves the reader wondering what exactly is in between what. Instead, be specific: "the reaction intermediates in the glycolysis pathway" or "the intermediates in the negotiation process".

Linguistic Context

The noun "intermediates" primarily functions as a plural noun, referring to entities, stages, or individuals existing in a middle position or state. Ludwig provides examples in chemical reactions, metabolic processes, and skill levels, showing versatile applications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

32%

Science

30%

News & Media

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intermediates" functions as a plural noun to describe items or stages in a middle position within a process, sequence, or hierarchy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable across various fields. Its usage spans from formal scientific and academic writing to neutral news reporting. To use it effectively, ensure clarity by specifying the context, such as "reaction intermediates" or "metabolic intermediates". Common synonyms include "middle stages", "connecting links", and "transitional phases". Overall, "intermediates" is a versatile term for denoting entities existing in-between extremes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

middle stages

Focuses on the sequential aspect, highlighting their position in a process.

intermediate elements

Emphasizes their role as a component positioned between two outer parts.

transitional phases

Emphasizes their role as periods of change or evolution.

intervening variables

Specifically describes elements that affect the relationship between an independent and dependent variable.

mediating factors

Highlights their role in influencing a relationship between two other variables.

connecting links

Stresses their function as a bridge or bond between two entities.

in-between steps

Focuses on their position as actions taken during a sequence.

buffer states

Implies a function of reducing conflict or mitigating differences between extremes.

middlemen

Specifically refers to individuals or entities that facilitate transactions or communication between parties.

stepping stones

Implies a role as temporary stages or means to reach a final goal.

FAQs

How is the term "intermediates" used in chemical reactions?

In chemistry, "intermediates" refer to short-lived molecules formed during a reaction, which quickly react further to create the final product. These are distinct from reactants and products, existing only transiently during the process. They can be also called "reaction intermediates".

What are common synonyms for "intermediates" in a business context?

In business, depending on the context, you can use synonyms like "middlemen", "intermediaries", or "agents" to describe entities that facilitate transactions or negotiations between two parties.

How does the meaning of "intermediates" differ in sports?

In sports, "intermediates" can refer to participants who are at a level between beginners and experts. You might also consider alternatives like "advanced beginners" or "proficient players".

Can "intermediates" be used to describe stages in a process?

Yes, "intermediates" can describe stages in a process that lie between the initial and final steps. Alternatives include "middle stages", "transitional phases", or "in-between steps".