are intent on

USAGE SUMMARY

"are intent on" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to express a strong and determined attitude and is often followed by the gerund (-ing) form of a verb, as in the example sentence, "They are intent on learning more about the history of the region."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Some boys are intent on one thing and one thing only - your virginity.

WikiHow

Some are intent on making biological machines.

The New York Times - Science

They are intent on shutting me down".

The New York Times

United are intent on dividing the position.

The Guardian - Sport

Rather, they are intent on personal aggrandizement.

The New York Times

Many governments are intent on tightening policy, not loosening it.

The Economist

Lithuanians are intent on moving their country forward.

The New York Times

The perpetrators of today's attacks are intent on destroying life.

The Guardian

They are intent on capturing that street food "vibe".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's 1928 and they are intent on setting a record.

The Guardian - Books

AOL executives are intent on avoiding the same fate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are intent on" when you want to convey a strong sense of purpose and determination. Follow it with a gerund (verb + -ing) to clearly indicate the action or goal they are focused on.

Common error

Avoid replacing "on" with other prepositions like "in" or omitting it entirely. The correct form is always "are intent on" followed by a gerund.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are intent on" functions as a verbal phrase expressing a strong intention or purpose. As shown in the Ludwig examples, it typically precedes a gerund, indicating the action the subject is determined to undertake. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

93%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are intent on" effectively conveys a strong sense of purpose and determination. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various formal and informal communications. To ensure correct usage, always follow it with a gerund. While alternatives like "are determined to" or "are resolved to" exist, "are intent on" provides a clear and direct way to express a firm commitment to a specific goal or action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are determined to

Indicates a firm decision to achieve something, with a stronger emphasis on resolve.

are resolved to

Suggests a formal and unwavering decision, often implying overcoming obstacles.

have set their sights on

Implies a specific goal or ambition, focusing on aspiration.

are bent on

Similar to "are intent on" but can sometimes carry a negative connotation of being stubbornly fixated.

are focused on

Emphasizes concentration and effort directed towards a specific aim.

are aiming to

Suggests a goal or objective, but with less intensity than "are intent on".

are pursuing

Indicates an active effort to achieve something over a period of time.

are striving for

Highlights the effort and struggle involved in achieving a goal.

are keen on

Expresses enthusiasm or strong interest in doing something.

are eager to

Indicates an enthusiastic anticipation or desire to do something.

FAQs

How can I use "are intent on" in a sentence?

Use "are intent on" to express a strong intention or determination to do something. For example, "They "are intent on" finishing the project by the deadline".

What phrases are similar to "are intent on"?

Similar phrases include "are determined to", "are resolved to", or "have set their sights on", which all convey a strong sense of purpose.

Is it correct to say "are intent to" instead of "are intent on"?

No, the correct phrase is "are intent on". The preposition "on" is essential. Saying "are intent to" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "are intent on" and "are interested in"?

"Are intent on" implies a strong and determined purpose, while "are interested in" suggests curiosity or mild enthusiasm. The former indicates a commitment to action, whereas the latter suggests an inclination.