# intergovernmental

/ˌɪntɝˌɡəvɝnˈmɛntəɫ/ (US) · /ˌɪntəɡˌʌvənmˈɛntəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/intergovernmental
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

involving or happening between the governments of two or more different countries.

For teachers: relating to or conducted between two or more governments. Typically describes formal agreements, organisations, or communication channels where national authorities represent their respective states.

## Examples

- The two countries signed an intergovernmental agreement on trade.
- The intergovernmental panel met in Brussels to discuss new environmental regulations that would affect the entire continent.
- Effective climate action requires a high degree of intergovernmental cooperation, as individual nations cannot solve global atmospheric issues without binding agreements and shared resources.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun; rarely used predicatively after a linking verb.

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