意図
The specific purpose, aim, or plan someone has in mind when they do or say something. It focuses on the motivation behind an action rather than just the final result.
Examples
3 of 5彼の発言の本当の意図がわかりません。
I don't understand the true intention behind his remark.
この新商品の開発意図を詳しく説明してください。
Please explain the development intent of this new product in detail.
今の冗談、変な意図があったわけじゃないよ。
I didn't have any weird intention with that joke just now.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the kanji: 意 (mind/thought) and 図 (map/plan). An 'ito' is a 'map of your mind' for what you plan to achieve.
Quick Quiz
質問の___がよくわかりません。もう一度説明してください。
Correct!
The correct answer is: a
Examples
彼の発言の本当の意図がわかりません。
everydayI don't understand the true intention behind his remark.
この新商品の開発意図を詳しく説明してください。
formalPlease explain the development intent of this new product in detail.
今の冗談、変な意図があったわけじゃないよ。
informalI didn't have any weird intention with that joke just now.
筆者はこの表現によって、読者の不安を煽る意図があると考えられる。
academicIt is considered that the author intends to stir up anxiety in the reader through this expression.
先方の意図を汲み取った上で、修正案を提示しましょう。
businessLet's propose a revision after we have grasped the other party's intentions.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
意図せずして
unintentionally / without meaning to
制作意図
the creative intent (behind a work)
意図を読み取る
to read between the lines / perceive intent
Often Confused With
Mokuteki focuses on the end goal or destination, whereas Ito focuses on the underlying thought or design behind an action.
Imi refers to the definition or significance of a word/event, while Ito refers to the speaker's personal motivation.
Usage Notes
Ito is often used in professional or analytical contexts to discuss why someone did something. In very casual speech, Japanese speakers often use 'tsumori' instead of 'ito'.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'ito' for simple physical destinations or basic desires like 'my intent is to go to the park,' where 'mokuteki' or 'tsumori' is more natural.
Memory Tip
Think of the kanji: 意 (mind/thought) and 図 (map/plan). An 'ito' is a 'map of your mind' for what you plan to achieve.
Word Origin
Derived from Middle Chinese roots where '意' means thought/will and '図' means to plan or draw.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
Understanding 'unspoken intent' is a key part of Japanese social harmony, often referred to as 'reading the air' (kuuki wo yomu).
Quick Quiz
質問の___がよくわかりません。もう一度説明してください。
Correct!
The correct answer is: a
Related Vocabulary
More communication words
説得力
B2The power or ability to convince someone to do or believe something through reasoning or argument.
要点
A1The most important part or the main point of a conversation, text, or idea. It refers to the essential information that summarizes the core message without unnecessary details.
詳細
A1Detailed information or the specific particulars of a matter. It is used when you need to go beyond a general summary and look at the fine points of a topic or event.
強調
B2The act of giving special importance or prominence to something in speaking or writing. It helps to direct the audience's attention to key points.
趣旨
B2The main point, purpose, or intent of a statement, action, or event.
苦情
B1A statement that something is unsatisfactory or unacceptable; a formal complaint regarding services, products, or behavior.
郵便
B1The system for sending letters and parcels from one person to another; the mail.
問い合わせ
B1An act of asking for information or checking details. Frequent in IELTS General emails asking for course details or rental information.
推薦
B1An act of recommending someone or something as suitable for a particular purpose or role.
至急
B1Requiring immediate action or attention; urgently or as soon as possible.
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