Intentionally
/ɪnˈtɛnʃənəli/
Definitions
With conscious and deliberate purpose.
/ɪnˈtɛnʃənəli/
In a way that is planned or intended.
He intentionally left the door unlocked.
💡 Simply: When you do something on purpose, not by accident. Like, if you *intentionally* push the red button, you mean to press it.
👶 For kids: Doing something on purpose. Like if you intentionally give your friend a high five.
More Examples
The artist intentionally used bold colors to grab the viewer's attention.
She didn't intentionally upset anyone; she just spoke her mind.
How It's Used
"The prosecution argued the defendant acted intentionally."
"I didn't intentionally spill your coffee."
From the word 'intention' (late Middle English) + '-ally' (forming adverbs). 'Intention' comes from the Latin 'intentio', from 'intendere' meaning 'to aim at, direct'.
The word 'intentionally' gained prominence in legal and philosophical contexts, discussing the nature of actions and responsibility.
Memory tip
Imagine INTENTIONally aiming a dart – you do it on purpose!
Practice
Word Origin
Root: intendere