Intervene

Definition

To come or occur between two periods, events, or states, or to get involved in a situation to change or stop something, especially as a way to help.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɪntərˈvin/
• Respelling: in-ter-VEEN (with "in" as in "tin," "ter" as in "her," and "VEEN" as in "seen")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɪntəˈviːn/
• Respelling: in-tuh-VEEN (with "in" as in "tin," "tuh" as in "sofa," and "VEEN" as in "seen")

In both dialects, "intervene" places the primary stress on the third syllable, "VEEN." The American pronunciation includes a pronounced "ter" sound, while the British pronunciation has a softer "tuh" sound.

Etymology

Derived from Latin "intervenire", from "inter-" ('between') + "venire" ('to come').

Derivatives

• Intervention (noun)
• Intervening (verb, present participle)
• Intervenor (noun)
• Intervened (verb, past tense)
• Reintervene (verb)

Synonyms

• Interfere
• Meddle
• Intrude

Antonyms

• Ignore
• Overlook
• Bypass

Usage

Intervene is used in contexts where an external party becomes involved in a situation, often to resolve a conflict, prevent harm, or bring about change.

Related Terms

• Mediation
• Interposition
• Interference
• Involvement
• Interjection

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Intervene (Verb, Dispute): To come between disputing parties, groups, or countries to mediate and resolve conflicts.
  • Example: "The United Nations decided to intervene in the conflict to facilitate peace talks."

• Intervene (Verb, Situation): To become involved in a situation to alter the outcome or prevent something undesirable from happening.
  • Example: "The teacher intervened to stop the argument before it escalated."

• Intervene (Verb, Legal): To become a party to a legal proceeding, either to assert a right or to advocate on behalf of another party.
  • Example: "The advocacy group sought to intervene in the case to protect environmental interests."

Note: "Intervene" primarily deals with insertion or introduction, often with the intention to alter or rectify situations, especially in contexts where some form of mediation or prevention is sought.