C1verb 2K

Intervene

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˌɪntəˈviːn/","/ˌɪntəˈviːnz/","/ˌɪntəˈviːnd/","/ˌɪntəˈviːnɪŋ/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˌɪntərˈviːn/","/ˌɪntərˈviːnz/","/ˌɪntərˈviːnd/","/ˌɪntərˈviːnɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Intervene

to become involved in a situation in order to improve or help it

In simple words: to get involved in a situation in order to help or change it

Intervene in a sentence

• The teacher decided to intervene when she saw the students arguing.
• Sometimes, it is necessary to intervene in a dispute to prevent escalation.
• The government was hesitant to intervene in the crisis, fearing backlash.
• As a mediator, my role is to intervene and facilitate discussions between conflicting parties.
• Doctors may intervene in life-threatening situations to save a patient's life.

How to use Intervene

Use 'intervene' in contexts where someone takes action to stop or change something. It's neutral and suitable for both formal and informal situations. Avoid using it in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

intervene + in/with

Memory hint

Think of 'intervene' as 'in to see' a problem—like stepping in to help.

Related words

Collocations with Intervene

• actively
• directly
• personally
• be forced to
• have to
• be powerless to
• against
• between
• in

Synonyms for Intervene

• interpose
• interfere
• step in
• engage
• meddle

Opposites of Intervene

• ignore
• withdraw

Common mistakes with Intervene

• 'Intervene' is often confused with 'interrupt'—they mean different things.
• Some learners use 'intervene' without a context—always specify what you're intervening in.
• Often mistakenly used in passive voice, but it should remain active.

Frequently asked questions about Intervene

What does Intervene mean?

to get involved in a situation in order to help or change it

What is the definition of Intervene?

to become involved in a situation in order to improve or help it

How do you use Intervene in a sentence?

The teacher decided to intervene when she saw the students arguing.

Can you give another example of Intervene?

Sometimes, it is necessary to intervene in a dispute to prevent escalation.

What are synonyms for Intervene?

Common alternatives include interpose, interfere, step in, engage, meddle.

What is the opposite of Intervene?

Opposite meanings include ignore, withdraw.

What words go with Intervene?

It commonly pairs with actively, directly, personally, be forced to, have to, be powerless to, against, between, in.

What are common mistakes when using Intervene?

'Intervene' is often confused with 'interrupt'—they mean different things. Some learners use 'intervene' without a context—always specify what you're intervening in. Often mistakenly used in passive voice, but it should remain active.

How do you pronounce Intervene?

US: /["/ˌɪntərˈviːn/","/ˌɪntərˈviːnz/","/ˌɪntərˈviːnd/","/ˌɪntərˈviːnɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ˌɪntəˈviːn/","/ˌɪntəˈviːnz/","/ˌɪntəˈviːnd/","/ˌɪntəˈviːnɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Intervene?

Use 'intervene' in contexts where someone takes action to stop or change something. It's neutral and suitable for both formal and informal situations. Avoid using it in very casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Intervene?

"Intervene" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.