What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intention
Example
My intention is to finish this project by the end of the week. [intention: noun]
Example
She acted with good intentions, but it didn't turn out as expected. [intentions: plural noun]
purpose
Example
The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the new product launch. [purpose: noun]
Example
I bought this tool for the purpose of fixing my bike. [purpose: prepositional phrase]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Purpose is more commonly used than intention in everyday language. Purpose is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while intention is less common and tends to be used in more personal or interpersonal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between intention and purpose?
Both intention and purpose are formal words that can be used in professional or academic contexts. However, purpose is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while intention is more commonly used in formal or legal contexts.
