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intent

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adjective

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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun intent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of intent are aim, design, end, goal, intention, objective, object, and purpose. While all these words mean "what one intends to accomplish or attain," intent suggests clearer formulation or greater deliberateness.

the clear intent of the statute

When can aim be used instead of intent?

In some situations, the words aim and intent are roughly equivalent. However, aim adds to these implications of effort directed toward attaining or accomplishing.

her aim was to raise film to an art form

In what contexts can design take the place of intent?

While the synonyms design and intent are close in meaning, design implies a more carefully calculated plan.

the order of events came by accident, not design

When could end be used to replace intent?

The words end and intent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, end stresses the intended effect of action often in distinction or contrast to the action or means as such.

willing to use any means to achieve his end

When is it sensible to use goal instead of intent?

While in some cases nearly identical to intent, goal suggests something attained only by prolonged effort and hardship.

worked years to reach her goals

When would intention be a good substitute for intent?

Although the words intention and intent have much in common, intention implies little more than what one has in mind to do or bring about.

announced his intention to marry

How do object and end relate to one another, in the sense of intent?

Object may equal end but more often applies to a more individually determined wish or need.

his constant object was the achievement of pleasure

Where would objective be a reasonable alternative to intent?

The meanings of objective and intent largely overlap; however, objective implies something tangible and immediately attainable.

their objective is to seize the oil fields

When might purpose be a better fit than intent?

The words purpose and intent can be used in similar contexts, but purpose suggests a more settled determination.

being successful was her purpose in life

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of intent
Noun
Companies should determine the intent behind each inquiry before deciding whether it should be routed to a bot or a human. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 13 July 2025 So far in 2025, Citizens has been named as a defendant in 2,478 lawsuits and 1,528 notices of intent to sue, according to state databases. Ron Hurtibise, Sun Sentinel, 12 July 2025
Adjective
This shift empowers brands to connect with consumers in richer, more intuitive ways, moving beyond simple keyword matching to anticipating user intent and delivering highly personalized experiences at scale. Google Ads, Forbes.com, 7 July 2025 This indifference has become a bizarre pattern—one that the franchise’s newest installment, Jurassic World Rebirth, seems intent on changing. David Sims, The Atlantic, 4 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for intent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intent
Noun
  • Legally, the Department of Defense can make military bases available to any federal, state or local law enforcement officials for law enforcement purposes, according to the National Immigration Law Center.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 20 July 2025
  • As Wolf says, cannabis hospitality’s future belongs to those who serve purpose, not novelty — building a new kind of travel rooted in mindfulness, connection and place.
    Javier Hasse, Forbes.com, 20 July 2025
Noun
  • Franz Wagner has made his intentions clear to suit up for Germany while Goga Bitadze will play for the Republic of Georgia.
    Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 July 2025
  • That means: Starting meetings with aligned priorities, not just agendas Ending them with clear next steps, not vague intentions Tracking progress in a way that’s visible, flexible, and tied to actual outcomes Leadership isn’t about managing time.
    Brent Gleeson, Forbes.com, 19 July 2025
Adjective
  • Corenswet has the right look—he’s got the glossy black hair, the resolute jaw—which points to another general Superman strength, particularly on film.
    Stephanie Zacharek, Time, 11 July 2025
  • While many Iranians have left Tehran amid ongoing turmoil, those who remain are resolute in their commitment to stay and support one another.
    Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 June 2025
Noun
  • Although the artist had specific weight loss goals, her primary focus is her mental health.
    Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 24 July 2025
  • The Argentine forward has 12 goals and seven assists in league play this season, his best return in three seasons in purple.
    Kyle Foley, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 July 2025
Noun
  • The question of the meaning of life continues unabated.
    Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025
  • Scottie Scheffler's comments about the meaning of winning and the balance between golf and the rest of his life have transcended the golf world.
    Julio Cesar Valdera Morales, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 July 2025
Adjective
  • By morning, they were determined to find a way out.
    Julianna Bragg, CNN Money, 20 July 2025
  • With a bout against WBA champion Fernando Daniel Martinez already confirmed for November, Rodriguez must first take care of business against a dangerous and determined Cafu.
    Kilty Cleary, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 July 2025
Adjective
  • Though approached by the landmark commission several times, Williams said the family was never interested in designating the property a historic landmark because of the alteration rules that would be applied to the site.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 14 July 2025
  • Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool are all interested, with the Reds reportedly looking at Ekitike as a first alternative to Isak if, as expected, Newcastle stands firm on his future.
    Harry De Cosemo, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
Noun
  • Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Chief Chris Bailey announced an effort to create his department's new strategic plan in April.
    Jade Jackson, IndyStar, 24 July 2025
  • As Syria grapples with sectarian clashes in the south and Israeli airstrikes in Damascus, Saudi Arabia is pushing forward with plans to engage economically.
    Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 23 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Intent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intent. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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