a general intention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a general intention' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to a broad, unspecified goal of which one wishes to accomplish. For example, "The general intention of the project was to make a positive change in the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

They began with a pair of sparely elegant armchairs and a scholar's cabinet, all from the Ming Dynasty, and a general intention to pursue a few select pieces of furniture.

The New York Times - Arts

Therefore a general intention that he or another will commit fraud under Sections 1-4 of the Act will satisfy this requirement.

International Journal for Educational Integrity

They had a general intention to use as little medication as possible but found themselves compelled to medicate frequently to cope with their headache.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

They had a general intention to use as little medication as possible but found themselves compelled to medicate frequently to cope with the headache.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

The trial judge decreed that it was enough to show the defendant acted with a bad motive and a general intention to disregard the law.

Forbes

But it is not necessary to prove that he intended it to be used in the course of or in connection with any specific burglary, theft or cheat; it is enough to prove a general intention to use it for some burglary, theft or cheat; we think that this view is supported by the use of the word "any" in Section 25 (1).

International Journal for Educational Integrity

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Although many vegans do lose a significant amount of weight, it is merely a side-effect and not the general intention.

WikiHow

Note that any speech act is characterised by the general intention to perform a communicative action; in this regard, Naming and Requesting are similar, so the brain activation differences are unlikely to reflect this general aspect of communicative intent.

Brain Topography

Our general intention was to use a hopeful approach in relation to the children and to pose the questions in a positive manner.

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health

I can only thank them for this, for there is no doubt that, over and above the general intention of introducing one's own ideas into a report, the ultimate goal is to improve the report itself and its effectiveness in the common, general interest.

EU Parlament

The general intention seemed to be not so much to break Caniggia's legs, as actually to separate them from the rest of his body".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a general intention" when describing a broad aim without specific details. It's suitable for outlining the overall direction of a project or action.

Common error

Avoid using "a general intention" when specific objectives are known. A vague intention can lead to unclear execution and unmet expectations. Instead, clearly define the intent and expected results of your project.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a general intention" functions as a noun phrase acting as the subject or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI suggests, it denotes a non-specific aim. It's important to note that while correct, a more specific term might be more useful in certain contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a general intention" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to express a broad, non-specific aim or objective. As Ludwig AI has confirmed, it is suitable for describing overall goals. While its frequency is uncommon, it appears in diverse sources from science and news to formal writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the lack of specificity is intentional and appropriate for the context, considering that a more focused and specific objective may be more useful in certain contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a broad objective

Focuses on the extensiveness of the aim.

a basic aim

Highlights the fundamental aspect of the goal.

an overarching goal

Emphasizes the comprehensiveness of the desired outcome.

a primary objective

Stresses the importance or priority of the intention.

a fundamental purpose

Highlights the essential reason or intent.

a main design

Suggests an underlying plan or purpose.

a common goal

Highlights a shared or collective aim.

a standard purpose

Focuses on the conventional or typical reason.

a typical objective

Emphasizes the usual or expected outcome.

a sweeping ambition

Indicates a wide-ranging and significant aim.

FAQs

How can I use "a general intention" in a sentence?

You can use "a general intention" to describe a broad purpose or aim. For example, "The company had "a general intention" to improve customer satisfaction, but lacked specific plans."

What's the difference between "a general intention" and "a specific intention"?

"A general intention" refers to a broad aim without detailed plans, while "a specific intention" outlines a precise goal with clear steps. For example, having "a general intention" to 'eat healthier' versus a specific one to 'eat five servings of fruits and vegetables daily'.

What are some synonyms for "a general intention"?

Alternatives to "a general intention" include "a broad objective", "a basic aim", or "an overarching goal", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to have "a general intention" or a detailed plan?

While "a general intention" can provide initial direction, detailed plans are typically more effective for achieving specific outcomes. A combination of both—a clear overall goal and concrete steps—often yields the best results.