second intention: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Literary, Technical (Philosophy/Medical)
Quick answer
What does “second intention” mean?
An unstated, underlying motive or purpose behind an action or statement, which is different from the primary or stated reason.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An unstated, underlying motive or purpose behind an action or statement, which is different from the primary or stated reason.
In philosophy (scholastic and modern), the concept of a mental representation or an abstract property of a sign, particularly how the mind relates to universals. In medicine, healing by granulation, where a wound closes from the edges inward, as opposed to primary closure.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The philosophical term is used identically in academic contexts. The medical term 'healing by second intention' is standard in both medical lexicons.
Connotations
In general discourse, often carries a slightly negative or cynical connotation, implying manipulation or hidden agendas.
Frequency
Very low frequency in general language. Most common in formal writing, literary analysis, or specific academic/technical fields.
Grammar
How to Use “second intention” in a Sentence
[Subject] + have + a second intention + of + [gerund]The + second intention + behind + [noun phrase] + was + [to-infinitive]It was done with the second intention of + [gerund]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. 'The merger proposal was accepted with the second intention of acquiring their patent portfolio.'
Academic
Common in philosophy/political theory. 'The scholastics debated whether second intentions exist in the mind or in things.'
Everyday
Figurative, formal. 'Her generous offer was made with a second intention—she hoped to gain his trust.'
Technical
Standard in medicine. 'Due to contamination, the surgeon decided to let the wound heal by second intention.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “second intention”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “second intention”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “second intention”
- Using it as an adjective (e.g., 'a second intention plan'). It is a fixed noun phrase.
- Confusing it with 'second thought' (a reconsideration).
- Overusing in everyday conversation where 'ulterior motive' is more natural.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is quite rare in everyday English. 'Ulterior motive' or 'hidden agenda' are far more common synonyms.
Rarely. It typically implies deception or at least a lack of full transparency. A positive hidden motive might be called an 'unofficial bonus' or 'unexpected benefit'.
It refers to the healing of a wound through the growth of new tissue (granulation) from the bottom and edges upwards, rather than by stitching it closed (primary intention).
It originates in medieval scholastic philosophy (e.g., Thomas Aquinas) and refers to a concept or property that exists only in the mind as it reflects on first-order concepts (e.g., the concept of 'species' or 'genus').
An unstated, underlying motive or purpose behind an action or statement, which is different from the primary or stated reason.
Second intention is usually formal, literary, technical (philosophy/medical) in register.
Second intention: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsɛkənd ɪnˈtɛnʃ(ə)n/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsɛkənd ɪnˈtɛn(t)ʃən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “To have an ace up one's sleeve”
- “To have a card to play”
- “To have more than one string to one's bow”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a magician: the FIRST INTENTION is to show you an empty hat (the stated purpose). The SECOND INTENTION is to pull out a rabbit (the hidden, real goal).
Conceptual Metaphor
COMMUNICATION/ACTION IS A LAYERED STRUCTURE (surface vs. depth), PURPOSES ARE OBJECTS HELD IN RESERVE.
Practice
Quiz
In which field does 'second intention' have a neutral, technical meaning?