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intent

n. · adj.
US //ˌɪnˈtɛnt// UK //ɪntˈɛnt// in·tent
  1. 1 purpose or goal (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the thing you plan to do or achieve; your aim.

    the objective or purpose behind an action. Often uncountable when referring to general aim.

    Example

    It was never my intent to hurt your feelings with that comment.

    Example

    The government's stated intent was to reduce carbon emissions by forty percent over the next decade, though critics questioned the lack of a concrete roadmap.
  2. 2 legal state of mind (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Technical Law

    the state of a person's mind when they commit a crime.

    the mental state of a person at the time of committing an offence, which determines the degree of culpability.

    Example

    The jury had to decide if the driver had the intent to cause harm.

    Example

    To secure a conviction for first-degree murder, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant acted with specific intent and premeditation.
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  1. 3 focused or determined (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    giving all your attention to something because you are very interested or determined.

    showing earnest and eager attention; firmly resolved on a specific course of action.

    Example

    She was so intent on her book that she didn't hear me enter.

    Example

    The researchers remained intent on their observations, refusing to leave the laboratory until the final data points had been recorded and verified.

    Usage

    usually followed by the preposition 'on'
Origin

Existing since Middle English entente, from Old French entent or entente, ultimately from Latin intentus. Modified later in spelling to align more closely with the Latin word. Compare intention.

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