Mediation

A structured process in which a neutral person helps parties seek their own agreement.

Reach for it when describing voluntary third-party support for resolving a dispute

Mediation helped the two groups agree on hours for the shared workshop.

• warm

  peacemaking

  when restoring workable relations deserves human language

  not when The word is broad and can prioritize harmony over a fair agreement.

• warm

  reconciliation process

  when repairing the relationship is as important as settling terms

  not when Reconciliation may be inappropriate where safe separation, not renewed closeness, is needed.

• professional

  assisted dialogue

  when guided communication is more accurate than a formal process label

  not when Dialogue can improve understanding without producing any agreement.

• professional

  conflict resolution

  when a broad term should cover several ways to address disagreement

  not when The phrase includes arbitration, negotiation, and other methods beyond mediation.

• professional

  facilitation

  when a neutral person improves the discussion process

  not when Facilitation does not require a dispute or aim at settlement.

• professional

  negotiation

  when the parties themselves exchange proposals and concessions

  not when Negotiation can occur without any neutral third person.

• formal

  conciliation

  when reducing hostility and rebuilding communication are central

  not when Conciliation may be less structured and can involve more active proposals.

• formal

  intervention

  when a third party enters a harmful situation to change its course

  not when Intervention may be authoritative or one-sided rather than neutral.

• formal

  shuttle diplomacy

  when an intermediary carries proposals between parties who do not meet

  not when This is a specific diplomatic method and too grand for ordinary mediation.

• escalation
• confrontation
• litigation

• enter mediation

  Both tenants agreed to enter mediation before filing a claim.

• mediation process

  The mediation process gives each party time to test possible terms.

• successful mediation

  Successful mediation ended with a schedule both families could follow.

• refer to mediation

  The board may refer the dispute to mediation with both parties' consent.