intent
Firmly fixed or concentrated on something.
Word facts
Definition of Intent
Unwavering from a course of action.
Example sentences
She was so intent on her book that she missed the bus.
He stared at the puzzle, intent on solving it before lunch.
Using Intent well
A closer look at how intent is used — meaning in plain English, how close synonyms differ, and examples at different levels.
What someone means or plans to do; the purpose behind an action.
Use the noun for the purpose or aim behind what someone does, especially in careful, legal, or reflective contexts. As an adjective ('intent on'), use it for being firmly focused or determined.
Common in law, design, and thoughtful writing (criminal intent, the intent of the author, intent on winning).
Note the pair 'intent' and 'intention': they overlap heavily, but 'intent' is preferred in fixed and legal phrases ('with intent to defraud', 'to all intents and purposes'), while 'intention' fits looser everyday use.
- intention
- nearly identical but softer and more everyday; 'intent' sounds more deliberate and formal, and is standard in legal use
- purpose
- emphasises the goal or reason for existing, often broader and more enduring than a single intent
- aim
- more concrete and target-focused; the specific thing you're trying to reach
- resolve
- as an adjective sense, stresses firm determination more than the plan itself
- objective
- cooler and more formal; a defined goal, usually measurable, rather than an inner purpose
- accident
- opposite of deliberate intent — something unplanned
- chance
- opposite in the sense of happening without design or purpose
- Beginner It was never my intent to hurt anyone.
- In writing The court had to decide whether the driver acted with intent or by mistake.
- Advanced She listened with the intent stillness of someone determined not to miss a single word.
'Intent' points at what you 'in-tend' — the plan you hold inside before you act.
Synonyms for Intent
Related words
Words closely connected to Intent in meaning or use:
Words that rhyme with Intent
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FAQ
Questions people ask
What does intent mean?
Firmly fixed or concentrated on something. It is an adjective.
How many syllables does intent have?
There are 2 syllables in intent, divided as ihn·tehnt when spoken.
What part of speech is intent?
In a sentence, intent functions as an adjective. As a noun, it names a thing, idea, or concept.
What are synonyms for intent?
Close in meaning to intent are rapt, spirit, attentive, purpose — choose the one whose tone fits your sentence.
How do you use intent in a sentence?
Example: "She was so intent on her book that she missed the bus."