Synonym Chooser

How is the word intercede different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of intercede are interfere, interpose, intervene, and mediate. While all these words mean "to come or go between," intercede implies acting for an offender in begging mercy or forgiveness.

interceded on our behalf

When could interfere be used to replace intercede?

While the synonyms interfere and intercede are close in meaning, interfere implies hindering.

noise interfered with my concentration

When is it sensible to use interpose instead of intercede?

While in some cases nearly identical to intercede, interpose often implies no more than this.

interposed herself between him and the door

When would intervene be a good substitute for intercede?

The meanings of intervene and intercede largely overlap; however, intervene may imply an occurring in space or time between two things or a stepping in to stop a conflict.

quarreled until the manager intervened

When can mediate be used instead of intercede?

The words mediate and intercede are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, mediate implies intervening between hostile factions.

mediated between the parties

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of intercede The Vatican says the first miracle attributed to Acutis was when he is said to have interceded from heaven in 2013 to save the life of a Brazilian child who was suffering from a rare pancreatic disease. Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 7 July 2024 There were no Florida Highway Patrol troopers available to respond, no opportunity for law enforcement to intercede. Paul Novack, Sun Sentinel, 6 Aug. 2024 Back in Arlington this summer, animal control officers interceded when bystanders chased after a bear to take photos, Toussaint said. Cybele Mayes-Osterman, USA TODAY, 29 July 2024 However, this decision was halted after the state Department of Corrections declined his release following the Attorney General and state supreme court legally interceded. Rayna Reid Rayford, Essence, 26 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for intercede 

Thesaurus Entries Near intercede

Cite this Entry

“Intercede.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intercede. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on intercede

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