Words / C1

meed-ee-AYSHUN/ˌmiːdiˈeɪʃn/

Mediation is a structured process in which a third person helps two sides agree: workplace mediation, mediation talks. Negotiation is direct between the parties; arbitration imposes a decision. A chat in the corridor is not mediation. Do not skip the date and call it mediation.

Meaning

Talks led by a third person to help two sides reach an agreement.

Examples

• “Mediation is not a finding; it is a process with a date in the minute.”
• “Negotiate is the everyday verb between sides. Reconcile is restore a relationship. Arbitration binds. A mediator does not replace ethics. An informal moan is not mediation.”

Good to know

Helped negotiation via a third party. Contrast: negotiation (direct); arbitration (imposed). Needs a process and a date.

Near in meaning

negotiate

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