idea, mind, heart, taste, thought, desire, care, liking
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意 centers on the inner world of thoughts, feelings, and intentions: the mind, heart, and the ideas or desires that arise from them. It covers everything from a passing thought to a deep personal liking or care.
meaning; significance; sense
attention; notice; heed
consciousness
preparation; arrangements; provision; getting ready; laying out (e.g. a meal)
opinion; view; comment
satisfaction; pride; triumph; elation
agreement; consent; approval; assent
intention; wish; purpose; mind (to do)
unexpected; surprising
intention; aim; design
(coming to an) agreement; consent; mutual understanding; accord; consensus
will; volition; intention; intent; determination
optional; voluntary; arbitrary; random; discretionary; facultative; spontaneous; any
decision; determination; resolution
kindness; favor; favour; friendliness
meaning; significance
intention; inclination; mind; idea; wish; view
will; desire; eagerness; interest; drive; motivation; urge; ambition
ill will; spite; evil intention; malice
respect; honour; honor
intent to kill; intent to murder; urge to kill; murderous impulse
stubbornness; obstinacy; willpower; pride
intent; intention; bad faith
implication; nuance; shade of meaning; connotation
意 combines 音 (sound) and 心 (heart/mind), suggesting the idea of inner sound or the voice of the heart. This is a standard semantic-component explanation for expressing thought or intention.
The sound 音 of your heart 心 is your inner voice: your thoughts, desires, and what you care about. 意 is the mind and heart working together.
For イ, imagine an eagle (イーグル) soaring through your mind, carrying your ideas and desires on its wings: eagle -> イ.