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How to Say "intermediary" in Spanish

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intermediario

een-ter-meh-dee-ah-ryoh/inteɾmeˈðjaɾjo/

adjectiveB2general
Use 'intermediario' when describing something that is in a middle stage or position, acting as a link between two other things or stages.
A bright bridge connecting two separate green hills over a small stream.

Examples

Esta es una fase intermediaria del proyecto.

This is an intermediary phase of the project.

La empresa ofrece servicios intermediarios entre exportadores e importadores.

The company offers intermediary services between exporters and importers.

Buscamos una solución intermediaria que satisfaga a todos.

We are looking for an intermediate solution that satisfies everyone.

Matching with Nouns

Since this is an adjective, it must change its ending to match the noun it describes. For a feminine noun like 'fase' (phase), it becomes 'fase intermediaria'.

Using 'intermedio' vs 'intermediario'

Mistake: “Un paso intermedio.”

Correction: This is actually correct! Both work, but 'intermediario' specifically emphasizes the 'linking' role between two parties.

conducto

/con-DOOC-toh//konˈdukto/

nounB2general
Use 'conducto' when referring to a person or a formal channel through which something (like information) is passed or communicated.
A carrier pigeon flying through the sky with a small rolled scroll attached to its leg.

Examples

Recibimos la noticia por conductos oficiales.

We received the news through official channels.

Él sirvió de conducto para llegar a un acuerdo.

He served as the medium to reach an agreement.

Debes enviar tu queja por el conducto regular.

You must send your complaint through the proper channels.

Using 'Por' with Conducto

When talking about how information moves, we almost always use the word 'por' (by/through) before 'conducto'.

False Friend Alert

Mistake: “Thinking it means 'conduct' (behavior).”

Correction: Behavior is 'conducta' (feminine). 'Conducto' (masculine) is a path or channel.

Noun vs. Adjective Confusion

Learners often confuse 'intermediario' and 'conducto' because both can relate to a 'link'. Remember that 'intermediario' is typically an adjective describing a state or position, while 'conducto' is a noun for a person or channel.

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