Definition of Intention
Quick Meaning of Intention
A plan or goal that someone wants to accomplish or achieve.
Detailed Definition of Intention
A plan or purpose that you have decided to achieve or do in the future.
How to Pronounce Intention
Stress pattern: oOs (3-syllable word).
Tip: Three syllables: /ɪnˈtɛnʃən/. Stress on the second syllable 'ten'. The 'sh' sound in the third syllable comes from 'tion'.
Watch out: Sometimes mispronounced as /ɪnˈtɛnʃn̩/ with reduced final syllable.
Origin and Etymology of Intention
From Latin 'intentio' meaning a stretching toward or aim; derived from 'intendere', meaning to stretch or point toward.
How to Use Intention in a Sentence
Each example shows “intention” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“My intention is to finish my homework before dinner tonight.”
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“The company stated its intention to hire 500 new employees next year.”
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“Understanding the speaker's intention helps us interpret their message more accurately.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Intention
Common Synonyms for Intention
Smart Synonyms for Intention — When to Use Each
- plan
- for intentions with steps
- purpose
- for deeper reason or motive
- goal
- for the outcome to achieve
Common Collocations with Intention
These phrases pair with “intention” in everyday English:
- good intention
- state intention
- intention to do
- with intention
- announce intention
Common Mistakes When Using Intention
Even fluent speakers slip up with “intention”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: My intention is going to university next year.
- ✓ Correct: My intention is to go to university next year.
- Why: After 'is', use the infinitive 'to go', not the gerund 'going'.
- ✗ Wrong: He has good intentions help, but he does not act.
- ✓ Correct: He has good intentions to help, but he does not act.
- Why: Include 'to' before the verb help to make a proper to-infinitive phrase.
Words Confused With Intention
- Intention vs Attention: Intention means a plan or purpose; attention means focus or awareness of something. Compare →
Other Forms of Intention
- Noun: intention
- Verb: intend
- Adjective: intentional
- Adverb: intentionally
Frequently Asked Questions About Intention
What is the meaning of "Intention"?
A plan or goal that someone wants to accomplish or achieve.
How do you pronounce "Intention"?
The IPA is /ɪnˈtɛnʃən/. Three syllables: /ɪnˈtɛnʃən/. Stress on the second syllable 'ten'. The 'sh' sound in the third syllable comes from 'tion'.
What part of speech is "Intention"?
"Intention" is a noun at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Intention"?
Common synonyms include plan, purpose, goal.
How do you use "Intention" in a sentence?
For example: "My intention is to finish my homework before dinner tonight."