Translation guide
How to express 'intention' in Japanese, covering plans, resolve, and purpose.
行くつもりです。
I intend to go.
どうするつもりですか？
What is your intention?
Expressing what you intend to do or what your plan is.
The most common way to say 'I intend to...' or 'I plan to...'. Attach to the dictionary form of a verb.
明日、映画を見に行くつもりです。
I intend to go see a movie tomorrow.
He intends to study abroad.
Used for scheduled plans or arrangements, often more concrete than つもり.
来月、大阪に出張する予定です。
I'm scheduled to go on a business trip to Osaka next month.
A formal noun meaning 'intention' or 'inclination', often used in business or official contexts.
会社の意向を確認してください。
Please confirm the company's intentions.
Refers to the underlying intention or aim behind an action, often used in analytical or formal contexts.
彼の意図がわからない。
I don't understand his intentions.
Expressing a strong intention or determination to do something.
Can also express strong intention, especially with emphasis or context.
絶対に勝つつもりだ。
I absolutely intend to win.
Expresses a personal intention or thought of doing something, often softer than つもり. Attach to the volitional form of a verb.
来年はもっと勉強しようと思います。
I think I'll study more next year.
The negative form, meaning 'have no intention of...'.
謝るつもりはありません。
I have no intention of apologizing.
Expressing the intention behind an action, often as 'in order to'.
Used to express purpose or intention. Attach to the dictionary form of a verb.
健康のために運動しています。
I exercise for my health.
留学するためにお金を貯めています。
I'm saving money in order to study abroad.
Similar to ために, but often used for goals involving potential or change of state. Attach to dictionary form or potential form.
早く起きられるように早く寝ます。
I go to bed early so that I can wake up early.
つもり expresses personal intention or plan, while 予定 implies a schedule or arrangement, often involving others or external factors.
明日は休むつもりです。
I intend to take a day off tomorrow. (personal decision)
明日は休む予定です。
I'm scheduled to take a day off tomorrow. (arranged with work)
意向 is formal and often used for organizations or in official statements. Using it for personal intentions can sound stiff or unnatural.