Intercede: meaning, definitions and examples
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intercede
[ˌɪntərˈsiːd ]
Definitions
legal
To intervene on behalf of another, especially in a legal context.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| intercede |
Intercede is used when someone steps in to speak on behalf of someone else, typically to help or get them out of trouble.
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| mediate |
Mediate is used when someone helps two or more parties to reach a resolution or agreement in a dispute.
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| intervene |
Intervene is used when someone gets involved in a situation to alter the outcome, usually to stop something bad from happening.
|
| advocate |
Advocate is used when someone supports or recommends a cause or policy publicly. It usually involves arguing in favor of something.
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Examples of usage
- He interceded with the judge on behalf of his client.
- The lawyer interceded to prevent the unfair treatment of the defendant.
religious
To act as an intermediary between God and humanity, especially in prayer.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| intercede |
Used when someone steps in to help or speak on behalf of another person, often to solve a problem or argue on their behalf.
|
| pray |
Commonly used in a religious context, referring to communicating with a deity or higher power, often asking for help, guidance, or giving thanks.
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| intervene |
Often implies stepping into a situation, usually to prevent a problem or to settle a conflict. It can have a slightly formal tone.
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| mediate |
Used when someone is acting as a neutral party to help two conflicting sides come to an agreement. Often used in formal situations such as legal or business disputes.
|
Examples of usage
- The priest interceded for the congregation in times of need.
- She interceded with the divine for forgiveness.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'intercedere', meaning 'to go between'.
- In Latin, 'inter-' means 'between' and 'cedere' means 'to go or yield'.
- It first appeared in English in the early 15th century.
Legal Context
- In legal terms, interceding can refer to a third party stepping in to mediate disputes or negotiations.
- Lawyers often intercede on behalf of their clients to settle legal matters without going to court.
- Mediation sessions frequently involve an interceder who helps both parties reach an agreement.
Cultural Significance
- In various religions, prayer can be an act of intercession, where one prays for others.
- In literature, characters often intercede for friends, showcasing themes of loyalty and friendship.
- Many cultures honor those who intercede in times of conflict, viewing them as peacemakers.
Psychology
- Research in social psychology shows that people are more likely to intercede when they feel a sense of responsibility.
- Bystander intervention studies reveal that witnessing someone in need often prompts individuals to intercede.
- Empathy plays a crucial role in the decision to intercede, as understanding someone else's pain can motivate action.
Literature
- Authors often use the act of interceding to develop plot and character relationships, adding layers of complexity.
- Famous works, like Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet', feature characters interceding for lovers caught in family feuds.
- The concept of interceding can be found in many fairy tales, where heroes step in to save the day.
Translations
Translations of the word "intercede" in other languages:
🇵🇹 interceder
🇮🇳 मध्यस्थता करना
🇩🇪 vermitteln
🇮🇩 menengahi
🇺🇦 втручатися
🇵🇱 wstawiać się
🇯🇵 仲裁する (ちゅうさいする)
🇫🇷 intercéder
🇪🇸 interceder
🇹🇷 araya girmek
🇰🇷 중재하다 (중재하다)
🇸🇦 يتوسط
🇨🇿 přimlouvat se
🇸🇰 zasahovať
🇨🇳 调解 (tiáojiě)
🇸🇮 posredovati
🇮🇸 ganga í milli
🇰🇿 араласу
🇬🇪 შუამდგომლობა
🇦🇿 araya girmək
🇲🇽 interceder