Intervene: meaning, definitions and examples

Appropriate when describing actively getting involved in a situation to prevent harm or improve the outcome, usually in a formal or serious context.

• 'The UN decided to intervene in the conflict to prevent further violence
• ' 'She had to intervene to stop the argument from escalating
• '

Used when involvement is unwanted or meddling, often having a negative connotation.

• 'I wish he wouldn't interfere with my decisions
• ' 'She is always interfering in my personal life
• '

Best used when acting as a neutral third party to help resolve a dispute or reach an agreement.

• 'The lawyer helped mediate the negotiations between the two companies
• ' 'He was called in to mediate the family dispute
• '

Informal and can be used in both casual and more serious contexts where one takes action to help in a situation or to stop something from happening.

• 'I had to step in when they started fighting
• ' 'She stepped in to organize the event when the original planner fell sick
• '

Repeated word.

Used for events that take place, often in a more formal or technical context, and it can imply something more sudden or specific.

• Natural disasters like earthquakes and floods can occur without warning

Used for events or situations that occur, typically by chance, without any deliberate action.

• If something unexpected were to happen, we'll need to be prepared

Used for planned events or occurrences, often with a focus on the location or time of the event.

• The wedding will take place in the garden at noon