C1noun5K

Intervention

UK /["/ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/"]/US /["/ˌɪntərˈvenʃn/"]/

Definition

action taken to improve or help a situation

In simple words: An action taken to improve a situation, especially to help someone in trouble.

Examples

calls for government intervention to save the steel industry
In the second group of states, direct intervention in the economy was limited.
**armed/military intervention**
NATO intervention in the troubled region
**a medical/surgical intervention**
Most patients make a recovery without further intervention.
People resented his repeated interventions in the debate.
Her daughters staged an intervention.
Family intervention is an essential component of treatment for adolescent drug abuse.

Usage notes

Typically used in formal or professional contexts, such as psychology or education. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

intervention + object

Memory hint

Think of 'intervening' in a game to change the outcome.

Collocations

active
direct
decisive
make
call for
demand
intervention against
intervention by
intervention from
powers of intervention
the right of intervention
active
direct
decisive
make
call for
demand
intervention against
intervention by
intervention from
powers of intervention
the right of intervention

Synonyms

intercession
mediation
interference
involvement
assistance

Antonyms

neglect
abandonment

Common mistakes

Confused with 'intercede', which means to intervene on behalf of someone else.
Using it in an incorrect context, such as 'the intervention was successful in sports'.
Mixing it up with 'invention', which relates to creating something new.