innocent intention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "innocent intention" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a motive or purpose that is pure or without malice. Example: "Despite the misunderstanding, her innocent intention was to help her friend in need."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Mets reliever D. J. Carrasco hit the Brewers slugger Ryan Braun in the shoulder one pitch after allowing a home run to Rickie Weeks, then threw up his arms in the international gesture for "how dare you accuse me of anything but the most innocent intentions?" Carrasco pleaded innocence but was immediately ejected.

The New York Times - Sports

If Governor Pataki were truly a good client, he would have pointed out that even words and images with innocent intentions can easily be read as partisan.

The New York Times - Arts

As a result of being asked to consider whether "a reasonable person" would view his statements as threats, the jury had wrenched his words from the context of his innocent intentions.

The Economist

"His implication in the events -- accidental, temporary, tangential," Mr. Mallon reflects, "is, in its way, an inconsequential version of Ruth's own, which depended on the collision of innocent intentions and unforeseen enormities".

The New York Times - Books

Despite the possible innocent intentions of the cat-caller, it's rare to find a young female student confident enough to walk herself home in the dark from a club, bar, party, or even an event where she has remained entirely sober.

Independent

Below the surface, ready to spew forth, lies: "Do you have a penis?" I am attempting here to set some ground rules for those of you who are not trans – ie those who are cisgender – who, perhaps with innocent intentions, ask these dreaded questions.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Jeff denies these allegations claiming that he had innocent intentions.

Wikipedia

Despite your innocent intentions, your wild twerking could end up shutting the whole place down.

Vice

Despite the cafe's seemingly innocent intentions, it perpetuates the stereotypes surrounding the fetishisation of Asian women. .

Vice

Despite the cafe's seemingly innocent intentions, it perpetuates the stereotypes surrounding the fetishization of Asian women. .

Vice

And my dear friend, who had only innocent intentions, is not just the girl who pushed me, but a friend who will likely carry some level of guilt with her for the rest of her life.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "innocent intention", consider adding context to clarify the reason behind the intention. Explaining the rationale can further emphasize the lack of malicious intent and provide a clearer picture of the situation.

Common error

Be cautious about excusing negative outcomes solely based on "innocent intention". While the intention may be pure, the consequences still matter. Acknowledge any harm caused, even if unintentional, to demonstrate accountability and empathy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "innocent intention" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "innocent" modifies the noun "intention". This phrase typically serves to describe or qualify the nature of someone's motives, as seen in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "innocent intention" is used to describe a motive or purpose free from malice or harmful intent. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. While it conveys a positive motive, it's important to consider the potential consequences of actions, even when intentions are pure. Alternatives such as "good intention" or "pure motive" may be used depending on the context. Keep in mind that assuming "innocent intention" doesn't always excuse poor judgment and acknowledging harm caused remains crucial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pure motive

Focuses on the unadulterated, untainted nature of the underlying drive.

good intention

Highlights the positive and benevolent nature of the aim.

harmless motive

Emphasizes the absence of any intent to cause harm or damage.

benign purpose

Stresses the gentle and favorable nature of the objective.

altruistic goal

Highlights the selfless concern for others that motivates the action.

well-meaning aim

Indicates that the objective is driven by positive sentiments and consideration.

naïve ambition

Suggests a lack of awareness of potential negative consequences despite a positive aim.

unaffected purpose

Emphasizes that the purpose is genuine and free from artificiality or insincerity.

simple objective

Highlights the straightforward and uncomplicated nature of the goal.

honest intent

Focuses on the sincerity and lack of deception in the purpose.

FAQs

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

You can use "innocent intention" to describe a situation where someone's actions were not meant to cause harm, such as, "Despite the negative outcome, her actions were driven by "innocent intention"."

What's a good alternative to "innocent intention"?

Depending on the specific nuance you want to convey, alternatives include "good intention", "pure motive", or "harmless motive".

Is it always appropriate to assume "innocent intention"?

While it's often beneficial to give the benefit of the doubt, assuming "innocent intention" may not always be wise. Consider the context, past behaviors, and potential consequences before making assumptions.

How does "innocent intention" differ from "good intention"?

While both suggest a positive motive, "innocent intention" often implies a lack of awareness of potential negative consequences, whereas "good intention" simply indicates a desire to do good.