mediation

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "mediation" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the sense of intervening in a dispute or argument to bring about reconciliation or a resolution. For example: "The couple sought mediation to resolve their differences and find common ground."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When asked about the terms and conditions of the loan Georges said: "I was told by Nick di Girolamo they were in mediation with Sydney Water and I got a bit excited because Sydney Water is a big utilities company.

The Guardian

"We deplore the categorical refusal by the British of Unesco's invitation to launch a mediation process over the Parthenon sculptures housed in the British Museum," the cultural minister had said.

The Guardian - Arts

In mediation practices going back hundreds of years, they have perfected conflict resolution techniques to negotiate rivalries and blood feuds.

The Guardian

The series will follow the "turbulent process of separating [in] the incredibly private world of the mediation room, following couples who once adored each other end up tussling over assets.

The Guardian

It was a little reminiscent of that scene in The Godfather when Al Pacino leaves a "mediation" meeting with his father's would-be killers to go to the lavatory in an Italian restaurant in New York chosen for peace talks aimed at averting an all out war.

The Guardian

McGuire, who has apologised unreservedly to the AFL star, will face the Racial and Religious Vilification Policy process, usually undertaken by on field players, which will see him undergo a mediation and educational process.

The Guardian - Sport

Proven remedies include mediation to interrupt violence between rival gangs, targeted education and recreation projects for at-risk teenagers, and counselling and childcare support for single-parent households.

The Guardian

In July 2013, it called on Unesco, the United Nations' cultural organisation, to intervene, urging David Cameron's government to participate in "a mediation procedure" in a bid to resolve the row.

The Guardian - Arts

My particular favourite in this collection is "A Temporary Matter", a beautiful mediation on grief, love and loss as a couple try to come to terms with the stillbirth of their child.

The Guardian

"Oman's history of mediation in Iran's issues and difficulties with the west shows that Oman has been able to play a positive role in this regards and we can probably expect that this trip will also be effective in this area".

The Guardian

But the South African president, Jacob Zuma, who has led the Zimbabwe mediation process in recent years, offered "profound congratulations" to Mugabe.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about resolving disputes, specify the stage or type of "mediation" involved to give clarity, such as pre-trial mediation or international mediation.

Common error

Avoid using "mediation" and arbitration interchangeably. "Mediation" involves a facilitator who helps parties reach their own agreement, while arbitration involves a neutral third party who makes a binding decision.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "mediation" is as a noun, referring to the process of intervening in a dispute to facilitate a resolution. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Mediation" is a frequently used noun referring to a conflict resolution process, as confirmed by Ludwig. It appears most often in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts. While grammatically correct and versatile, it's important to distinguish it from similar terms like arbitration. Ludwig examples show diverse applications, from international diplomacy to personal disputes. Understanding its proper usage can enhance clarity in writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dispute resolution

Covers all processes for resolving conflicts, with "mediation" being one method.

conflict resolution

Focuses more broadly on resolving conflicts, while "mediation" specifies a particular method.

negotiation

Emphasizes direct discussion between parties, without necessarily involving a neutral third party.

arbitration

Implies a more formal process where a decision is often binding, unlike "mediation".

conciliation

Highlights restoring friendly relations, which can be a goal of "mediation".

intervention

Indicates a broader act of getting involved, where "mediation" is a specific type of intervention.

facilitation

Suggests guiding a process, often less directive than "mediation".

peace talks

Refers to discussions aimed at ending hostilities, where "mediation" might be used.

good offices

Offers a third party's help in facilitating communication, a softer approach than "mediation".

reconciliation

Focuses on restoring harmony after conflict, a potential outcome of "mediation".

FAQs

What is the role of a mediator in a "mediation"?

A mediator facilitates communication between disputing parties, helping them to explore options and reach a mutually agreeable solution. The mediator does not make decisions or impose settlements.

How does "mediation" differ from arbitration?

"Mediation" is a collaborative process where parties work towards a voluntary agreement. Arbitration, on the other hand, is an adjudicative process where an arbitrator makes a binding decision, similar to a judge.

When is "mediation" most effective?

"Mediation" is often most effective when parties are willing to communicate, compromise, and find creative solutions. It is particularly useful in situations where preserving relationships is important.

What are some alternatives to "mediation"?

Alternatives to "mediation" include negotiation, arbitration, litigation, and conciliation. The best approach depends on the nature of the dispute and the parties' willingness to collaborate. See also: "conflict resolution", "negotiation".