Intently: meaning, definitions and examples

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intently

[ɪnˈtɛntli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a focused manner

With earnest and eager attention.

Synonyms

attentively, concentrated, focussed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
intently	Used when someone is giving their full attention to something, often with a sense of seriousness or purpose. It suggests a level of depth in focus. She listened intently to the instructions. He stared intently at the chessboard, planning his next move.
attentively	Applied in situations where someone is paying close attention, often in a respectful or considerate manner. It suggests active listening and engagement. The students listened attentively to the teacher. She watched attentively as the artist demonstrated the technique.
focussed	Describes a state of clear and directed attention. It can imply that the person is not easily distracted and is dedicated to a specific goal or task. She remained focussed throughout the meeting, taking detailed notes. His focussed approach helped him to excel in his studies.
concentrated	Refers to a state of focused attention where there is a high level of mental effort. Often used to describe focus on a single task or object. He worked in a concentrated manner to finish the project on time. The concentrated effort of the team led to their success.

Examples of usage

She was listening intently to the professor's lecture.
He stared intently at the painting, trying to decipher its meaning.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

in a determined manner

With a strong purpose or determination.

Synonyms

determinedly, persistently, resolutely.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
intently	Use this word when describing someone who is focusing very closely and with great concentration on something. She listened intently to the presentation He stared intently at the chessboard, thinking about his next move
determinedly	This word suits situations where someone is doing something with a strong sense of purpose and the will to succeed despite difficulties. He worked determinedly to finish the project on time She looked at him determinedly, convinced she was right
resolutely	This word is best used when someone is acting with firm determination and unwavering strength, often in the face of opposition or difficulty. She resolutely refused to be intimidated He resolutely defended his stance during the debate
persistently	Choose this word when describing someone who continues doing something despite challenges or resistance, often implying a long-term effort. She persistently asked questions until she understood the topic He persistently followed up on the job application

Examples of usage

She worked intently on her project, determined to finish it on time.
The detective searched intently for clues to solve the mystery.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'intentus', meaning 'stretched out' or 'eager'.
It has connections to other words like 'intention' and 'intensive', showing its focus-related roots.
In English, it has been used since the 14th century to express concentrated effort.

Psychology

Focusing intently can enhance learning and memory retention, as the brain processes information more deeply.
Studies show that multitasking reduces the quality of work and the ability to concentrate intently on one task.
Mindfulness practices encourage engaging with tasks intently to improve mental clarity and reduce stress.

Literature

Characters in novels often display intent gazes or actions to signify their deep emotional investment in situations.
Poets use 'intently' to evoke imagery that requires close, thoughtful reading, enhancing the emotional impact.
Famous works sometimes describe heroes 'listening intently' to show their courage and determination.

Art

Artists may observe their subjects intently to capture real emotion and details in their work.
An art technique called 'plein air' involves painters focusing intently on natural settings to express light and atmosphere.
Intense focus is often reflected in the brush strokes and depth of expression found in serious portraiture.

Education

Teachers encourage students to listen intently during lessons to better understand the material.
Classroom strategies often include activities that require students to work intently on problem-solving.
Learning environments designed for focus can significantly impact students’ ability to engage intently with subjects.

Translations

Translations of the word "intently" in other languages:

🇵🇹 intencionalmente

🇮🇳 ध्यानपूर्वक

🇩🇪 absichtlich

🇮🇩 dengan sengaja

🇺🇦 уважно

🇵🇱 intencjonalnie

🇯🇵 意図的に

🇫🇷 intentionnellement

🇪🇸 intencionalmente

🇹🇷 kasıtlı olarak

🇰🇷 의도적으로

🇸🇦 عن قصد

🇨🇿 záměrně

🇸🇰 úmyselne

🇨🇳 故意地

🇸🇮 namenoma

🇮🇸 viljandi

🇰🇿 қасақана

🇬🇪 განზრახ

🇦🇿 qəsdən

🇲🇽 intencionalmente

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,039, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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13036 aerobic
13037 brink
13038 quadrant
13039 intently
13040 squirrel
13041 reforming
13042 petitioned
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