Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
formation of an intention
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "formation of an intention" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of developing or establishing a specific intention or goal. Example: "The formation of an intention is crucial for achieving success in any endeavor."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Formal & Business
News & Media
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
9 human-written examples
Why, then, maintain that the formation of an intention cannot be an intentional mental action as well?
According to the standard theory, the formation of an intention is an action if it is an intentional action under some description (or if it is either identical with or generated by an intentional action; see section 2).
Science
Previous studies have shown that prospective memory, requiring the formation of an intention and the execution of a corresponding action, is associated with decreased activation in the dorsal mPFC, close to the region activated in Theory of Mind tasks.
Science
Do results include everything that happens after the formation of an intention or the exertion of the will, for example?
Science
Or everything that follows the beginning of the formation of an intention or the beginning of the exertion of the will?
Science
Consider again the central case of decision-making, and assume that making a decision consists in the formation of an intention.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
51 human-written examples
Before deciding, agents rarely if ever intend to decide to A. In most cases, the formation of such an intention would seem superfluous; why not simply intend to A? Rather than intend to decide to A, in most cases agents intend to decide what to do (i.e. whether to A or to B or to C).
A reply that is available within Bratman's account may refer to a presupposition of the formation of a shared intention.
Science
The importance of planning is emphasized in stage-based models of behaviour change [ 6], and is implicit in models that specify the factors leading to the formation of a behavioural intention, such as the Theory of Planned Behaviour [ 7].
Science
These ignitions started gradually, with very low – although significantly above baseline – activation values, a stage that we interpret as the model correlate of the (pre-conscious) formation of an initial action intention, or preparation (time-steps 0 2).
Science
Only with the latter can we account for, first, for the expectation on the part of the speaker that she or he will be interpreted as intended (a precondition for the formation of the intention), and second, the high rate of successful audience uptake.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When discussing goal-setting or behavior change, use "formation of an intention" to emphasize the initial stage of committing to a specific course of action. This highlights the cognitive process involved in deciding what to do.
Common error
Don't replace "formation of an intention" with overly complex or jargon-filled phrases like "intentionality instantiation" unless you are writing for a very specialized audience. Clarity and directness are usually preferable.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "formation of an intention" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the process of creating or developing a specific intention. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.
Frequent in
Science
70%
News & Media
15%
Formal & Business
15%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "formation of an intention" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that describes the process of developing a specific intention or goal. While not extremely common, as Ludwig AI notes, it finds frequent usage in scientific, formal, and business contexts, particularly within academic papers and research articles. Alternatives such as "developing an intention" or "creating an intention" can be used to add nuance. When using this phrase, focus on clarity and avoid overly complex language to ensure effective communication.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
developing an intention
Focuses on the process of developing, rather than just forming, an intention.
creating an intention
Emphasizes the act of bringing an intention into existence.
establishing an intention
Highlights the setting up or firm establishment of an intention.
setting an intention
Similar to establishing, but can imply a more personal or informal context.
formulating an intent
Uses the word 'intent' as a synonym for 'intention'.
devising an intention
Suggests a more thoughtful or strategic approach to forming an intention.
conceiving an intention
Implies the mental creation or origination of an intention.
shaping an intention
Indicates an active process of molding or refining an intention.
building an intention
Suggests a gradual process of constructing or reinforcing an intention.
developing a plan
Shift from intention to plan can be closely related in meaning.
FAQs
How can I use "formation of an intention" in a sentence?
You can use "formation of an intention" to describe the process of creating a plan or deciding on a goal. For example: "The "formation of an intention" is a critical step in achieving any task".
What are some alternatives to "formation of an intention"?
Alternatives include "developing an intention", "creating an intention", or "establishing an intention" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
Is it better to say "formation of intention" or "forming an intention"?
"Formation of an intention" refers to the process itself, while "forming an intention" is the act of doing it. The best choice depends on whether you are describing the process or the action.
What factors influence the "formation of an intention"?
Factors influencing the "formation of an intention" can include risk awareness, outcome expectancies, and self-efficacy, as indicated by research in areas like health behavior and entrepreneurship.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested