intents
word · lemma: intent
Definition
'Intents' is the plural of 'intent', meaning the purposes or reasons someone has for doing something; what someone plans or means to do.
Usage & Nuances
Most common in formal, legal, or technical English (e.g. 'legal intents and purposes'). Not often used in daily conversation; 'intentions' is more common for everyday speech. Often found in the plural as a set phrase: 'for all intents and purposes'. Don't confuse 'intents' with 'contents'.
Example Sentences
The lawyer asked about his intents in signing the contract.
basic
Her intents were good, even though the result was bad.
basic
We should trust people’s intents unless proven otherwise.
basic
For all intents and purposes, the project is finished.
natural
Their intents seemed honest, but we still double-checked the details.
natural
When it comes to business deals, people's real intents aren't always obvious.
natural