Intervene
To come between two or more parties or events to prevent or alter the outcome; to interfere in a situation in order to help resolve or change what happens.
verbIntervene
To come between two or more parties or events to prevent or alter the outcome; to interfere in a situation in order to help resolve or change what happens.
verbImagine This
Imagine a mediator stepping between two arguing colleagues to calm the room and guide them toward a peaceful compromise.
Sounds Like
in-ter-VEEN
Looks Like
inter- (between) + vene (to come) — visually hints at coming between things
Remember This
Intervene literally means to come in between; the root parts are 'inter-' (between) and 'venire' (to come).
Other Forms
Connect With
mediate, intercede, arbitrate, interfere, step in
Note
Intervene does not always carry a positive connotation—it can also mean to intrude. Use 'intervene in' when referring to getting involved in a specific situation.