ombudsman

Vocabulary Word

Definition

An 'ombudsman' serves as a kind of middleman who helps resolve conflicts or concerns between parties. You go to an ombudsman if you're having disagreements or issues that need to be sorted out.

Examples in Different Contexts

In consumer rights, an 'ombudsman' acts as an independent mediator between customers and companies to resolve complaints or disputes. A consumer rights advocate might explain, 'If you're unable to resolve a dispute with your service provider, contacting the ombudsman can provide a fair and impartial resolution.'

Practice Scenarios

Public-Policy

Scenario:

Citizens have voiced discontent over the proposed park in the neighborhood. There is a need to address their concerns effectively.

Response:

Scheduling a meeting with the city's ombudsman could be a good course of action, offering an impartial space to address the park issue.

Academics

Scenario:

One of our students has raised a concern about the grading of her last assignment. It seems there may have been a genuine oversight.

Response:

That requires immediate attention. We should get the ombudsman involved to assure a fair resolution to the student's grading complaint.