What does intermediate mean?
Intermediate describes a level, stage, or result that lies between a beginner level and an advanced one. It is especially common in education, examinations, language learning, and practical training, as in an “intermediate course” or an “intermediate proficiency.” The term can also refer more broadly to something in the middle of a process, such as an intermediate result or stage. As a noun, an intermediate is a person whose knowledge or skill is beyond the beginner level but has not yet reached an advanced standard. Because it identifies a middle position without specifying the subject or context, the word is useful for describing gradual systems of classification and development. Its straightforward usage across British and American English makes it a familiar alternative to expressions such as “middle-level,” although those alternatives may sound slightly less formal in some contexts.
At a level between beginner and advanced, or relating to a stage in the middle of a process.
"The exam is intended for intermediate candidates."
Widely used in education and professional training; it can also mean lying between two extremes.
A person whose knowledge or ability is at a level beyond beginner but below advanced.
"The workshop welcomes beginners and intermediates alike."
Most often used for learners or participants in a graded activity.
The plural is especially common when referring collectively to people at an intermediate level.
"The course is suitable for beginners and intermediates."
The word combines the Latin prefix inter-, meaning “between,” with medius, meaning “middle,” so its literal sense is “lying between.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does intermediate come from?
The word comes from Latin intermediatus, a participial adjective formed from inter-, meaning “between,” and medius, meaning “middle.” It entered English in a form closely resembling the modern word and was initially associated with intermediate stages in a process. Its relatives include mediate and intermediary, while medium and median belong to the same underlying Latin root.
Related word forms
How intermediate is actually used
The adjective is widely used in education, language learning, and qualifications. As a noun, it most often refers to a learner whose ability is neither elementary nor advanced. In technical contexts, it can also describe an intermediate stage or result lying between two extremes.
Easily confused with intermediate
Intermediate describes a level between beginner and advanced, whereas to mediate means to act as a neutral intermediary or help settle a dispute.
Intermediate means partway through a progression, while immediate means happening without delay.