stand between
Block the middle
Stand between means to occupy the space separating two things or people, often with the implication of blocking or mediating.
Literally, someone stands between two objects: The referee stood between the fighters.
Figuratively, it describes what prevents connection or progress: Nothing stands between you and success except fear.
To stand between parties in conflict suggests intervention or protection: She stood between her brother and the bullies.
Come between opposing sides
- intercedeIntervene on behalf
- arbitrateSettle as impartial judge
- negotiateDiscuss to reach agreement
- reconcileResolve a disagreement
broker · facilitate · referee · moderate · buffer · peacemaker · intermediary · liaison
Solid mass, or impede
barrier · obstacle · barricade · interpose · interfere · inhibit · hamper · foil
Handheld defensive armor
- guardWatchful defensive attention
- defendProtect from harm
- shelterProtected place or structure
- screenDisplay or barrier
buffer · safeguard · insulate · cover · interpose · bodyguard · sentinel · bulwark
To set apart
- partitionBarrier separating spaces
- splitSeparation into parts
- wedgeTapered splitting tool
- estrangeCause emotional separation
alienate · isolate · rift · gulf · chasm · schism · disconnect · distance
Verbal clash over differences
- tensionStretched or strained state
- hostilityAntagonistic disposition toward others
- antagonismActive opposition or hostility
- frictionResistance between touching surfaces
discord · contention · feud · clash · opposition · rivalry · caught · crossfire
intervene
Come between opposing sides
reconcile · broker · facilitate · referee · moderate · buffer · peacemaker · intermediary · liaison · diplomat
block
Solid mass, or impede
thwart · barrier · obstacle · barricade · interpose · interfere · inhibit · hamper · foil · disrupt
shield
Handheld defensive armor
screen · buffer · safeguard · insulate · cover · interpose · bodyguard · sentinel · bulwark · ward
separate
To set apart
estrange · alienate · isolate · rift · gulf · chasm · schism · disconnect · distance · sever
dispute
Verbal clash over differences
- tensionStretched or strained state
- hostilityAntagonistic disposition toward others
- antagonismActive opposition or hostility
friction · discord · contention · feud · clash · opposition · rivalry · caught · crossfire · dilemma
- peacemakingnegotiation, mediation, peace agreement, mediate, pacifying
stand betweenstep aside
Withdraw from a position
get out of the way · stand back · withdraw · make way · back off
stand betweenabandon
Leave behind permanently
expose · hang out to dry · throw to the wolves · forsake · desert
stand, between, stands, standing, standstill, standpoint, withstand, understand, understanding