I was intent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I was intent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong focus or determination towards a particular goal or task in the past. Example: "I was intent on finishing the project before the deadline, so I worked late into the night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

The truth is, I was intent on a barn.

The New York Times - Magazine

"But I was intent on doing something else".

The New York Times - Sports

I was intent on staying focused and poised".

The New York Times - Sports

"I was intent on talking to Tania or Alicia or any combination," he wrote.

The New York Times

I was intent on what I was doing and oblivious to everything else.

The New Yorker

He showed no interest in striking up a long conversation, but I was intent on it.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

"I am intent on talking.

The New York Times - Health

I'm intent on reading fiction while I'm gone.

The Economist

I am intent on seeing what we can do".

The New York Times - Health

"I give myself one month to achieve what I am intent to do".

The New York Times

Next season I am intent on making sure that dog is housebroken".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I was intent" to clearly express a strong, focused determination towards a specific goal or action in the past.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "intent" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "focused" or "determined" for a more natural tone in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I was intent" functions as a statement of past intention or determination. It modifies the subject "I" by describing the state of mind or focus the speaker had at a particular time. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing this phrase in use.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

1%

Academia

0%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I was intent" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that effectively expresses past determination or focus. Ludwig's analysis reveals that it's commonly found in news and media sources, demonstrating its suitability for professional communication. While versatile, consider the context and choose simpler alternatives for very informal settings. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is a reliable way to convey a strong sense of past purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I was determined

Uses a different adjective to express a similar sense of strong resolve.

I was resolved

Similar to "determined", but suggests a more formal or final decision.

I was focused

Emphasizes concentration on a task rather than strong will.

I had every intention

Shifts the focus to the initial plan or purpose.

I set my mind to

Indicates a deliberate decision to concentrate efforts.

I was hell-bent on

Emphasizes a forceful and unwavering commitment, often with a slightly negative connotation.

I was dead set on

Expresses a firm and unchangeable decision.

I had my sights set on

Highlights the goal or target of one's determination.

I was eager to

Suggests enthusiasm and anticipation in addition to determination.

I made it my mission to

Elevates the goal to a personal quest or important undertaking.

FAQs

What does "I was intent on" mean?

It means you were firmly focused or determined to achieve something. It expresses a strong intention or purpose in the past.

What can I say instead of "I was intent on"?

You can use alternatives like "I was determined", "I was focused", or "I had every intention" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "I am intent"?

Yes, "I am intent" is grammatically correct, although "I was intent" refers to a past intention. To express current intent, you can also use "I am determined" or "I am focused".

What's the difference between "I was intent" and "I was intending"?

"I was intent" suggests a firm resolution and focus, while "I was intending" simply indicates a plan or possibility, without the same level of determination. "I was intending" implies something you thought about doing, but "I was intent" suggests a stronger commitment to doing it.