intended meaning

USAGE SUMMARY

'intended meaning' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use the phrase when you want to express the meaning that was originally intended or the purpose of a statement. For example, "This message may not have been received as intended, but its intended meaning was that I am wishing you well."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Zhu (1995) Questioning, requesting clarifications, responding, providing information, eliciting feedback, identifying various problems and clarifying intended meaning.

International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education

Table 3 Propositional inputs for models 1 and 2 Predicate Arguments Proposition name Intended meaning Parenting:       1.

Complex Adaptive Systems Modeling

Be like--do--like this ; more or less the accepted, certainly intended meaning.

Los Angeles Times

The transcription and translations of these qualitative data were conducted by JM and checked by AZ to clarify intended meaning.

Health Policy and Planning

The Web protocols themselves would benefit from a richer representation of intended meaning.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Benchmark: Knows different subjects, themes and symbols (through context, value and aesthetics) which convey intended meaning in artworks.

The New York Times

I think the intended meaning of that is actually rather clear: the combination of longevity, and vitality.

Huffington Post

If we let understanding mean the power to make experience intelligible by applying concepts and categories, which is my intended meaning, I'll stand by my 'yes'yes

Biology Direct

What was its author's intended meaning?

Princeton University

Exegesis, the critical interpretation of the biblical text to discover its intended meaning.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Regardless of your intended meaning, people may hear something else in what you say.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, always consider the audience's perspective to ensure your "intended meaning" is accurately received. Clarity is key.

Common error

A common mistake is assuming your audience automatically understands your "intended meaning". Always provide sufficient context to avoid misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intended meaning" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and commonly used in English, serving to identify a speaker's aim.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

49%

News & Media

33%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "intended meaning" is a grammatically sound and widely used noun phrase that clarifies the original purpose or significance behind a message or action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for use in written English. Its prevalence across various contexts, particularly in science, news, and academic writing, suggests a neutral to formal register. While it is important to ensure the "intended meaning" is clear to the audience and to avoid assumptions of shared understanding, making it's a reliable phrase for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

true intent

Focuses on the genuine motivation behind an action or statement.

actual meaning

Stresses the true or correct interpretation.

core meaning

Focuses on the fundamental significance.

original intention

Focuses on the initial plan or purpose behind something.

underlying message

Emphasizes the implicit or less obvious meaning.

communicative intent

Specifies the goal of communication.

primary purpose

Highlights the main goal or objective.

unstated meaning

Highlights the meaning that is implied but not explicitly expressed.

inherent significance

Highlights the importance or value that is naturally part of something.

deeper significance

Focuses on the hidden or more profound meaning.

FAQs

How can I ensure my "intended meaning" is clear to my audience?

Provide sufficient context, use precise language, and consider your audience's background knowledge. Rephrasing and examples can also help.

What is the difference between "intended meaning" and "actual meaning"?

"Intended meaning" refers to what the speaker or writer meant to convey, while "actual meaning" is how the message is interpreted by the audience, which may differ.

What are some alternatives to "intended meaning" in formal writing?

In formal writing, you can use phrases like "original intention", "primary purpose", or "true intent" to convey the same idea.

How does context influence the "intended meaning" of a message?

Context provides the necessary background and cues for understanding the "intended meaning". Without sufficient context, the message can be easily misinterpreted.