What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intermediate
Example
The hike was of intermediate difficulty, not too easy but not too hard. [intermediate: adjective]
Example
I am taking an intermediate Spanish course this semester. [intermediate: adjective]
intervening
Example
There was an intervening hill between the two valleys. [intervening: adjective]
Example
The intervening years had changed her perspective on life. [intervening: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intermediate is more commonly used than intervening in everyday language. Intermediate is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, such as education, sports, and music. On the other hand, intervening is less common and tends to be used in more formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between intermediate and intervening?
Both intermediate and intervening can be used in formal contexts, but intervening may be perceived as more formal due to its less frequent usage in everyday language.
