intent
B2Formal
Definition
Meaning
A plan or aim; purpose.
The state of mind focused on achieving a specific outcome, or a particular meaning implied in law or communication.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
"Intent" is often used to describe a determined or fixed purpose, especially in legal and formal contexts. It has a more intense, focused connotation than simple 'intention'.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'intention' is more common in everyday speech. In American English, 'intent' is used more widely, especially in law. The phrase 'to all intents and purposes' is common in BrE; AmE uses 'for all intents and purposes'.
Connotations
Generally neutral, but has a stronger connotation of determination and fixed purpose than 'intention'.
Frequency
More frequent in AmE in legal and business contexts; in BrE, 'intention' is often preferred for general use.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
with the intent of + -ingintent to + infinitiveintent on/upon + noun/-ingVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “for all intents and purposes”
- “with intent to deceive”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used in strategic plans and contracts, e.g., 'a letter of intent'.
Academic
Used in legal, philosophical, and linguistic discourse to discuss purpose or meaning.
Everyday
Less common than 'intention'; used for emphasis, e.g., 'He was intent on winning.'
Technical
Crucial in law (mens rea - guilty mind) and computing (e.g., 'intent' in Android programming).
Examples
By Part of Speech
adjective
British English
- She had an intent expression as she studied the map.
American English
- He was intent on finishing the project before the deadline.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- My intent is to help you.
- The letter stated her clear intent to resign.
- The prosecution must prove criminal intent beyond reasonable doubt.
- For all intents and purposes, the merger was finalized last quarter, pending only minor formalities.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of IN + TENT. Imagine a person so focused on their GOAL (purpose) that they are completely INSIDE their tent, blocking out distractions.
Conceptual Metaphor
PURPOSE IS A DESTINATION (He set out with the intent to...), PURPOSE IS A FORCE (He was driven by intent).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'интендант' (intendant/quartermaster).
- Often corresponds to 'намерение', but 'intent' is stronger and more formal.
- Beware of false friend 'интенсивный' (intensive).
Common Mistakes
- Using 'intention' in legal contexts where 'intent' is required.
- Incorrect preposition: 'intent for doing' instead of 'intent to do' or 'intent on doing'.
- Confusing the noun 'intent' with the adjective 'intent' (as in 'an intent look').
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'intent' most strongly required?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Intent' suggests a stronger, more deliberate, and often more formal purpose, especially in law. 'Intention' is more general and common in everyday speech.
No, 'intent' is a noun and an adjective. The verb form is 'intend'.
It describes someone who is giving all their attention to something; earnest and focused.
It is a formal document outlining the preliminary understanding between parties who plan to enter into a contract or agreement.