What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
medial
Example
The medial part of the brain is responsible for regulating body temperature. [medial: adjective]
Example
The doctor examined the patient's medial thigh for any signs of injury. [medial: adjective]
intermediate
Example
The course is designed for intermediate-level students who have some knowledge of the language. [intermediate: adjective]
Example
The athlete finished in an intermediate position, not quite first but not last either. [intermediate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intermediate is more commonly used than medial in everyday language. Intermediate is a more general term that can be used in various contexts, while medial is more technical and specific to medical or anatomical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between medial and intermediate?
Both medial and intermediate can be used in formal or technical contexts. However, medial may be perceived as more formal due to its technical nature and association with medical terminology.