WordGarden.iointentional
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɪntˈɛnʃənəl/
US
- /ˌɪnˈtɛnʃənəl/
Meanings
Adjective
done deliberately or on purpose
relating to a mental state's being directed toward an object or content
Beyond the definition
Something intentional is not an accident. It is done with a clear aim or purpose. Think of a painter choosing each brushstroke with care. Or think of a kind gesture: if you send flowers to cheer up a friend, that act is intentional because you chose to do something thoughtful. Sometimes, things seem accidental but are actually planned, like a teacher quietly watching students to see what they understand. The word suggests care, thought, and purpose behind an action.
The word "intentional" describes actions or decisions made with conscious awareness and a specific goal in mind. It goes beyond simply doing something; it emphasizes the why behind the action. If you build a birdhouse, that's intentional—you deliberately set out to create a home for birds. But if you trip and accidentally knock over a vase, that wasn't intentional!
"Intentional" is often used in contexts where careful planning or deliberate choice is paramount. For example, an intentional community is a group of people who live together with shared values and goals. In psychology, "intentional behavior" refers to actions driven by conscious thought and motivation rather than mere reflex.
The concept also applies to design and communication. An intentional design isn't just aesthetically pleasing; it serves a specific purpose or solves a particular problem. Similarly, intentional language is carefully chosen to convey a precise meaning or evoke a specific response from the listener.
Finally, "intentional" often implies a high degree of thoughtfulness or care. A truly intentional gift isn't just something you grabbed at the last minute—it's something you chose specifically because it suits the recipient and demonstrates that you put real thought into their happiness. When something is described as "intentional," remember it wasn't random—it was a deliberate act born from conscious purpose.
Examples
- 1
Mistake
The mistake wasn't intentional.
- 2
Comment
Was that comment intentional, or did it just come out wrong?
- 3
Design choice
It was an intentional choice to keep the design simple.
- 4
Personal habits
She is trying to be more intentional about how she spends her free time.
- Patternbe intentional about + something
think carefully about it and choose it for a reason
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Film style
The long silence in the film feels intentional, not awkward.
- 6
Careful speech
He was very intentional with his words during the meeting.
- Patternintentional with + something
careful and thoughtful in how you use it
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- intentional act
- intentional harm
- intentional choice
- intentional about
Word family
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- intentionaladjective