intermediate
6 synonyms and 2 antonyms for intermediate, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Positioned between two extremes, or partway through a course of learning.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use intermediate
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
Borrowed from Medieval Latin intermediatus, from intermedius, meaning "in the middle."
Full origin of intermediate →Frequently asked questions
What does “intermediate” mean?
The word “intermediate” means positioned between two extremes, or partway through a course of learning. In plain terms, somewhere in the middle — between beginner and advanced, or between the start and end of a process.
How do you pronounce “intermediate”?
“Intermediate” is pronounced ihn-tuh-MEE-dee-uht (/ɪn.tə(ɹ)ˈmi.di.ət/ in IPA).
How do you use “intermediate” in a sentence?
Here is “intermediate” used in a sentence: “She signed up for the intermediate Spanish class after finishing the beginner course.”
What is the opposite of “intermediate”?
The opposite of “intermediate” — its antonyms — are extreme and intense.
What part of speech is “intermediate”?
Depending on how it is used, “intermediate” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “intermediate” come from?
The word “intermediate” comes from Medieval Latin. Borrowed from Medieval Latin intermediatus, from intermedius, meaning "in the middle.".
Is “intermediate” a common word?
“Intermediate” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “intermediate” have?
“Intermediate” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: positioned between two extremes, or partway through a course of learning.
What is the difference between intermediate and intermediary?
Intermediate is mainly an adjective meaning positioned between two extremes or stages, as in an intermediate level or step. An intermediary is a person or organization that acts as a go-between in negotiations or transactions; the words are not interchangeable.
What level is intermediate in learning?
Intermediate is the middle band between beginner and advanced, describing a learner who has moved past the basics but has not yet mastered the subject. Many course systems refine it further with pre-intermediate and upper-intermediate stages.
What is an intermediate in chemistry?
In chemistry, an intermediate is a substance produced partway through a chemical process, before the final product is reached. It forms during the reaction and is typically consumed as the reaction continues.
What comes after intermediate?
In the usual progression of skill levels, intermediate is followed by advanced, with expert or proficient sometimes placed above that. Before intermediate come the beginner and elementary stages.