Definition of Intend
Quick Meaning of Intend
To plan or decide that you will do something; to have something as your goal.
Detailed Definition of Intend
To have a plan or purpose in mind; to mean to do something.
How to Pronounce Intend
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Two syllables: first syllable unstressed /ɪn/, second stressed /ˈtɛnd/. Stress falls on the second part, not the first.
Watch out: Sometimes stressed on first syllable /ˈɪntend/ instead of second syllable /ɪnˈtɛnd/.
Origin and Etymology of Intend
From Latin 'intendere' meaning to stretch toward or aim at; related to 'intense' and 'intention'.
How to Use Intend in a Sentence
Each example shows “intend” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“I intend to travel to Japan next summer for my vacation.”
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“The government intends to reduce carbon emissions by 2030.”
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“She intends to study medicine even though her parents prefer engineering.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Intend
Common Synonyms for Intend
Smart Synonyms for Intend — When to Use Each
- plan
- for detailed intentions with steps
- aim
- for desired targets you work toward
- mean
- for casual intentions in conversation
Common Collocations with Intend
These phrases pair with “intend” in everyday English:
- intend to do
- intend to be
- intend to go
- intend for
- intend no harm
Common Mistakes When Using Intend
Even fluent speakers slip up with “intend”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I intend going to university next year.
- ✓ Correct: I intend to go to university next year.
- Why: After intend, use infinitive to go, not gerund going.
- ✗ Wrong: He intends fix the car himself.
- ✓ Correct: He intends to fix the car himself.
- Why: Include 'to' before the verb form to create proper to-infinitive structure.
Words Confused With Intend
- Intend vs Pretend: Intend means to plan something seriously; pretend means to act as if something is true when it is not. Compare →
Other Forms of Intend
Frequently Asked Questions About Intend
What is the meaning of "Intend"?
To plan or decide that you will do something; to have something as your goal.
How do you pronounce "Intend"?
The IPA is /ɪnˈtɛnd/. Two syllables: first syllable unstressed /ɪn/, second stressed /ˈtɛnd/. Stress falls on the second part, not the first.
What part of speech is "Intend"?
"Intend" is a verb at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Intend"?
Common synonyms include plan, aim, mean.
How do you use "Intend" in a sentence?
For example: "I intend to travel to Japan next summer for my vacation."