freehand copying of calligraphy; copying without rigid adherence to the model
In calligraphy, 意臨 refers to copying a model while capturing its spirit rather than its exact form. Contrasts with 臨書, which is faithful copying. The broader gloss 'copying freely' is a rare extended use.
See also: 臨書
In calligraphy practice, the teacher said, "Let's try freehand copying today."
意臨 is a copying method that emphasizes the brush spirit over the exact shape of the model.