I initially intended

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I initially intended" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing your original plans or goals before any changes occurred. Example: "I initially intended to travel to Europe this summer, but the pandemic changed my plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

I generally talk in long-winded rants that may or may not end up anywhere close to where I initially intended.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

I'd initially intended to talk a lot about investing in India, since I'm going there in November, and it's a cause close to Khosla's heart.

TechCrunch

I actually initially intended to switch to law.

Science Magazine

I stopped by Bergamot Station last week to check out a few exhibitions at various galleries and spent --to moreurprise-- more time there than I had initially intended.

Huffington Post

In 2015, Macy Gray claimed Katy Perry's 2008 US No 1 single, I Kissed a Girl, was initially intended for her.

The Guardian - Music

It initiated the measures in December and initially intended to end them in July.

BBC

The family never initially intended to leave.

The New York Times

Dr. Lee initially intended to become a practicing physician.

The New York Times - Health

The book was initially intended to be just about Britain, "but soon spiralled.

The Guardian

Pritchard says the work, initially intended to help children with disfigurement, has benefited all the pupils.

The Guardian

Bowie initially intended the project as a soundtrack to a theatrical adaptation of Orwell's novel.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase, make sure to follow it with an explanation of what actually happened or what you decided to do instead.

Common error

Avoid using "I initially intended" without clarifying the outcome. Always provide context about what ultimately occurred or what the final decision was to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I initially intended" functions as a declarative statement expressing a past intention or plan. It's often used to introduce a narrative or explanation of how a prior plan evolved or changed. This usage is supported by Ludwig examples, where the phrase introduces a context for a decision or action.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I initially intended" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to introduce a plan or intention that was later altered. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific discussions. When using this phrase, ensure you provide context about the final outcome to avoid any ambiguity. Consider alternatives like ""I originally planned"" or ""My original intention was"" to add nuance or emphasis to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I had originally planned

Focuses on the original plan with an emphasis on the planning stage.

I had at first aimed

Highlights the initial aim or objective.

My original intention was

Emphasizes the initial intent or purpose.

I first thought to

Indicates a preliminary thought or consideration.

I had initially set out to

Highlights the start of a journey or task with a specific goal.

I started out wanting to

Focuses on the initial desire or want.

I had in the beginning purposed

Emphasizes the purpose from the onset.

Initially, I was going to

Focuses on the plan in its initial phase and is less formal.

At first, I envisioned

Emphasizes the original vision or mental image.

I had in mind to begin with

Focuses on what was conceived or considered at the beginning.

FAQs

How can I use "I initially intended" in a sentence?

Use "I initially intended" to introduce a plan or action you originally considered but later changed. For example, "I initially intended to travel to Europe, but I decided to stay home".

What can I say instead of "I initially intended"?

You can use alternatives like "I originally planned", "I had at first aimed", or "My original intention was" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "I initially intended to" or "Initially, I intended to"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct. "I initially intended to" places more emphasis on the person and their intention, while "Initially, I intended to" emphasizes the timing of the intention. The choice depends on the desired emphasis.

What's the difference between "I initially intended" and "I originally planned"?

While similar, "I initially intended" focuses more on the purpose or aim, whereas "I originally planned" emphasizes the structured plan that was in place.