Intend: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• This word comes from the Latin 'intendere', meaning 'to stretch out or aim at'.
• It evolved in Middle English as 'entenden', which reflected the idea of aiming or directing one’s thoughts.

Psychology

• People who set clear intentions are often more likely to achieve their goals, as intentions help direct focus and behavior.
• Intending is also linked to motivation; when you intend to do something, it can boost your energy and determination.

Literature

• In many classic novels, characters' intentions drive the plot, as their goals create conflict and resolution.
• Poets often explore the theme of intention versus action, questioning whether what we plan is the same as what we do.

Cultural Insights

• In different cultures, expressing intentions can vary; in some, being direct is valued, while in others, subtlety is preferred.
• Customs around planning events, like weddings or festivals, often reflect the importance of intention in social gatherings.

Pop Culture

• Many self-help books emphasize the power of intention, claiming that setting intentions can lead to personal transformation.
• In movies, characters with strong intentions often become heroes, showing viewers the importance of staying true to one's goals.

With rank #4,506, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

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