Intended
/ɪnˈtɛndɪd/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo have a plan or purpose in mind; to mean to do something.
/ɪnˈtɛnd/
To plan or mean to do something.
I intended to call you, but I forgot.
💡 Simply: Think of it like this: if you *intend* to eat a cookie, you've already decided you're going to do it. It's like having a plan in your head! For example: I intended to call my friend, but I got busy.
👶 For kids: When you *intend* to do something, it means you plan to do it. Like if you intend to play with your toys later.
More Examples
She intended to study for the exam.
The company intends to launch a new product next year.
How It's Used
"I intended to go to the store, but it started raining."
"The law is intended to protect consumers."
Planned or designed for a specific purpose or person.
/ɪnˈtɛndɪd/
Planned or designed for a particular purpose or recipient.
This email is intended for the project team.
💡 Simply: When something is *intended*, it means it was made or meant for a specific reason or person. Like, if a toy is *intended* for kids, it means kids should play with it! For example: This book is *intended* for beginners.
👶 For kids: If something is *intended*, it means it's made for a special reason or person. Like a toy *intended* for kids!
More Examples
The gift was intended as a thank you.
The building was intended to be a library.
How It's Used
"This software is intended for experienced users."
"She attended the intended wedding."
Idioms & expressions
as intended
Successfully achieved or functioning in the way it was planned.
"The system worked exactly as intended."
with the best intentions
Having good aims or goals, even if the result is not successful or causes harm.
"He acted with the best intentions, but his actions caused some problems."
From Middle English *entenden* (to pay attention, to direct oneself), from Old French *entendre* (to pay attention, understand), from Latin *intendere* (to stretch out, aim, direct).
The word 'intend' and its forms have been used since the 14th century, initially with the meaning of 'direct one's attention to'. Over time, the meaning evolved to its current sense of planning or having a purpose in mind.
Memory tip
Imagine pointing an 'INTEND' arrow at your goal!