Definitions
- Describing interference in someone else's business or affairs without being asked. - Referring to involvement in a situation that does not concern oneself. - Talking about interfering in a situation where one is not welcome or needed.
- Referring to stepping in to stop or prevent something from happening. - Describing involvement in a situation to resolve a conflict or issue. - Talking about taking action to help someone in need.
List of Similarities
- 1Both involve getting involved in a situation.
- 2Both can have positive or negative consequences depending on the context.
- 3Both imply taking action in a situation.
What is the difference?
- 1Intent: Meddle implies interfering in a situation that does not concern oneself, while intervene suggests taking action to help or resolve an issue.
- 2Permission: Meddle is often unwelcome and done without permission, while intervene can be done with the consent of those involved.
- 3Connotation: Meddle has a negative connotation, while intervene can have a positive connotation.
- 4Scope: Intervene can refer to a wide range of situations, while meddle is more specific to unwanted interference.
- 5Outcome: Intervene implies taking action to resolve a situation, while meddle may not necessarily lead to a resolution.
Remember this!
Meddle and intervene both involve getting involved in a situation. However, the difference between the two is their intent and scope. Meddle implies unwanted interference in a situation that does not concern oneself, while intervene suggests taking action to help or resolve an issue. While meddle has a negative connotation, intervene can have a positive connotation and can refer to a wide range of situations.
