serve as intermediary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serve as intermediary" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe a person or thing that acts as a mediator or go-between in a situation. Example: The lawyer was hired to serve as an intermediary between the two parties in the dispute.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Whether they are true or social orphans, the fact remains that these homes often serve as intermediary places where children can be fed, attend school, and be safe from the streets.

Huffington Post

Previous studies indicate that PAT-4, UNC-97 and PAT-6 serve as intermediary members of the linkage formed between the integrins and myofilaments [ 16- 18].

Cell and Bioscience

The model in fact suggests that the newly duplicated receptors (here NR3C) exploit as ligands chemical species that serve as intermediary compounds in the "ancestral ligand" synthesis pathway (here the estradiol synthesis pathway) [ 8].

BMC Evolutionary Biology

For instance, Maurer's clefts, which serve as intermediary compartments for exported proteins and which usually form stacks of unilamellar membranes (Lanzer et al., 2006), have an amorphous appearance and their movements are aberrant in parasitized HbS and HbC erythrocytes (Cyrklaff et al., 2011; Kilian et al., 2013).

Biology Open

CV events are significant in their own right, occurring at a rate of approximately 510 admissions/1000 patient-years in hemodialysis patients and representing about 27%% of hospitalizations in this population [ 2], and also may serve as intermediary pathways linking IDWG to mortality.

BMC Nephrology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Companies are also springing up to develop treatment guidelines and serve as intermediaries between oncologists and health plans.

The New York Times - Health

Mbembe religion includes belief in a creator god and spirits who serve as intermediaries between the living and the dead.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Rabbi Henry I. Sobel, the chief rabbi of Brazil, said he would propose that Catholic leaders serve as intermediaries between Jews and Muslims to bring the Muslims into the dialogue.

The New York Times

At that time, the administration even had Cuban exiles willing to risk their standing in a fervently anti-Communist community to serve as intermediaries between the two governments.

The New York Times

(Solicitors, who go wigless, are the lawyers who provide legal advice to clients and serve as intermediaries between client and barrister when cases go to court).

The New York Times - Travel

Though King and Smith have worked out some of their branding partnerships directly, a growing number of companies serve as intermediaries between influencers and brands.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "serve as intermediary", ensure clarity about the entities between which the intermediary is operating. Specify the parties involved to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The diplomat served as intermediary between the two nations."

Common error

Avoid using "serve as intermediary" without specifying the context. The role of the intermediary should be clear to the reader. Do not leave the reader wondering what or whom the intermediary is connecting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serve as intermediary" functions as a verbal phrase, indicating a specific role or function performed by someone or something. It expresses the act of facilitating communication or connection between two or more parties. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "serve as intermediary" accurately describes a role of connecting or facilitating interactions between two or more parties. While grammatically sound and clear in meaning, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, its frequency is relatively rare. The contexts where this phrase is commonly encountered are diverse, including News & Media, scientific research, and formal business settings, indicating its versatility. When using this phrase, it's essential to specify the parties involved to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives such as "act as mediator" or "function as a liaison" depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

act as mediator

Replaces "serve as" with "act as", focusing on the mediation aspect.

function as a liaison

Substitutes "intermediary" with "liaison", implying a formal communication role.

work as a go-between

Uses the informal term "go-between" instead of "intermediary".

facilitate communication

Focuses on the communication aspect of being an intermediary.

mediate between

Emphasizes the action of mediating disputes or discussions.

broker a deal

Implies a role in negotiating and finalizing agreements.

connect the parties

Highlights the role of bringing different groups together.

act as a channel

Uses the metaphor of a channel for conveying information or resources.

liaise with

Highlights communication and coordination as a key aspect.

be a point of contact

Focuses on being available for communication and information exchange.

FAQs

How can I use "serve as intermediary" in a sentence?

Use "serve as intermediary" to describe someone or something that facilitates communication or action between two or more parties. For example, "The organization aims to "serve as intermediary" between local businesses and international investors".

What are some alternatives to "serve as intermediary"?

Alternatives include "act as mediator", "function as a liaison", or "work as a go-between", depending on the specific context and level of formality.

Is it better to say "serve as intermediary" or "act as intermediary"?

Both "serve as intermediary" and "act as intermediary" are grammatically correct and largely interchangeable. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific nuance you wish to convey. "Act as" may imply a more deliberate or temporary role.

What's the difference between "intermediary" and "mediator"?

"Intermediary" is a broader term referring to anyone who acts as a go-between. "Mediator" specifically implies someone who helps parties reach a resolution, often in a dispute. Thus, a mediator can "serve as intermediary", but not every intermediary is a mediator.