Intervention

Definition

The act or process of intervening, particularly to prevent or alter a result or course of events.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɪntərˈvɛnʃən/
• Respelling: in-ter-VEN-shun (with "in" as in "tin," "ter" as in "her," "VEN" as in "ten," and "shun" as in "nation")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɪntəˈvɛnʃən/
• Respelling: in-tuh-VEN-shun (with "in" as in "tin," "tuh" as in "sofa," "VEN" as in "ten," and "shun" as in "nation")

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

Etymology

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

Derivatives

• Intervene (verb)
• Intervening (verb, present participle)
• Interventional (adjective)
• Intervenor (noun)
• Reintervention (noun)

Synonyms

• Mediation
• Interference
• Intrusion

Antonyms

• Nonintervention
• Avoidance
• Neglect

Usage

Intervention is commonly used in contexts such as medical, social, political, and military actions where an outside party steps in to alter or manage a situation.

Related Terms

• Intervene
• Interposition
• Mediate
• Interject
• Involve

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Intervention (Noun, General): The act of intervening, interfering, or interceding with the intent to modify the outcome or process.
  • Example: "The government announced an economic intervention to stabilize the market."

• Intervention (Noun, Medical): A treatment or action taken to improve a medical disorder.
  • Example: "Early intervention can significantly improve the prognosis for children with developmental delays."

• Intervention (Noun, Social): Actions taken to improve a social situation or prevent harm.
  • Example: "The school initiated an intervention program to address bullying."

• Intervention (Noun, Military): The act of a country or organization intervening in the affairs of another country, often to influence or control an outcome.
  • Example: "The military intervention was justified as a means to protect human rights."

Note: "Intervention" typically refers to a strategic or deliberate intrusion, either to assist or to prevent certain outcomes. In medical, educational, or other professional fields, it suggests a method or approach implemented to bring about positive change or improvement.