Vermitteln

Vermitteln is a German verb with several related but distinct meanings. The core sense is to act as an intermediary or go-between in order to bring parties or interests into contact, agreement, or coordination. In this usage, a person, institution, or mechanism mediates between two sides, such as an employer and a job seeker, a buyer and a seller, or a disputing party and a resolution.

A second common sense is to convey or transmit information, impressions, or experiences. In this sense, something is said to be mediated or conveyed to someone, for example when a message or impression is communicated or when a mediator helps someone to understand another point of view. The verb can also appear in expressions that describe how something is perceived or presented.

Vermitteln is frequently used in professional contexts related to placement and mediation. Nouns such as Vermittlung (mediation, brokerage) and Vermittler or Vermittlerin (mediator, broker) reflect this usage. Examples include a job center that vermittelt applicants to employers or a mediator who vermittelt a settlement between parties.

Grammatical notes: Vermitteln is a transitive verb and can take a direct object (jemanden vermitteln) or be used with a dative construction (jemandem etwas vermitteln) when referring to imparting something. Common synonyms include übermitteln, weitergeben, übertragen, and vermitteln in the sense of creating contact or understanding.

Etymology: The verb derives from the root Mittel (means, middle) with the prefix ver-, related to the sense of bringing about mediation or transmission.