What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intermediary
Example
The company hired an intermediary to negotiate the terms of the contract. [intermediary: noun]
Example
The intermediary helped to bridge the gap between the two sides and find a mutually beneficial solution. [intermediary: adjective]
middleman
Example
The middleman helped to facilitate the sale of the property between the buyer and seller. [middleman: noun]
Example
The middleman took a cut of the profits for his role in the transaction. [middleman: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Middleman is more commonly used than intermediary in everyday language, especially in business or commercial contexts. Intermediary is a more formal and less common term that is often used in legal or diplomatic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between intermediary and middleman?
Intermediary is a more formal and neutral term that can be used in various formality levels, while middleman is typically associated with a more informal or negative connotation and is less appropriate for formal contexts.
