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intervention

in-ter-VEN-shun /ˌɪntərˈvɛnʃən/

nounB2SATTOEFL

MedicalSocial Science

Action taken to improve a situation, especially a medical disorder or a social problem.

Implies a deliberate, planned effort to change the course of an event or condition.

The story behind the word. 'Intervention' literally means 'to come between.' It combines the Latin 'inter' (between) and 'venire' (to come). Think of it as stepping into the middle of a process to stop it from going the wrong way.

Word relationships

interference: Usually has a negative connotation of getting in the way, whereas intervention is usually positive or neutral.
mediation: Specifically refers to resolving a conflict between two parties.

neglect: Failing to take action or care for something.
non-interference: The policy of not getting involved.

Commonly confused with

invention: Invention is creating something new; intervention is stepping into an existing situation.

Word family

intervene (verb): To come between so as to prevent or alter a result.

Collocations

medical intervention
early intervention
government intervention
surgical intervention

Example sentences

"Early surgical intervention was necessary to prevent further complications." Medical treatment plan.
"Government intervention in the form of a sugar tax has shown promising results." Public health policy.

Memory hook

'Inter' (Between) + 'Vention' (Convention/Coming) = Coming between. Intervention: Stepping in to help.

When not to use

Not for accidental changes; it must be intentional.

Fun facts

In psychology, an 'intervention' is also a specific meeting where family members confront someone about an addiction.