intended something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intended something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a purpose or goal behind an action or statement. Example: "She intended something meaningful with her speech, hoping to inspire the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Stalin intended something else.

The New Yorker

So by "play" we might guess he intended something other than lightness of spirits.

The Guardian - Arts

Some scientists say that a glitch led ESA to publish more data than it had originally intended, something that ESA denies.

The Economist

Clooney and Soderbergh co-produced Todd Haynes' brilliant Douglas Sirk update-pastiche Far From Heaven, and they may have intended something similar here.

The Guardian - Film

When the conductor Charles Dutoit planned the program that the Philadelphia Orchestra presented at Carnegie Hall on Tuesday evening, he presumably intended something along the lines of a valedictory statement.

The New York Times - Arts

"The government is therefore engaging in sleight of hand when it asserts that the jury may find that 'Andersen' intended something if each juror believes that a different person at Andersen had that intent".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Yet he intends something broader and richer by the comparison with Colette.

The New Yorker

For, from the moment John Cole arrives, we know that this limbo intends something for him, something irrevocably transformative.

The Guardian - Books

However, the poet may be also intending something more subversive, since "barus" also means "burdensome", "grievous" and "oppressive".

The Guardian

This is her thought, but she ends up saying something different from what she intends, something that makes a stranger of him.

The Guardian - Books

Suddenly it was on its feet barking loudly and menacingly at the door we were standing behind, as though it had sensed we were intending something and resented that.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "intended something", ensure that the context clearly specifies what the 'something' refers to, either explicitly or implicitly, to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The architect intended something groundbreaking with this design."

Common error

Avoid using "intended something" without clarifying the object. Instead of saying, "He intended something", specify what he intended to achieve or create. For instance, "He intended to create a lasting legacy."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intended something" functions as a verb phrase where "intended" is the verb and "something" is a pronoun acting as the direct object. It indicates the existence of a plan, purpose, or goal, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "intended something" is a grammatically correct verb phrase used to convey that an action or design was driven by a specific purpose. While Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, its frequency is uncommon. It's suitable for various contexts, especially in news, media and scientific sources. To enhance clarity, specify what the 'something' refers to and consider using synonyms like "meant something" or "designed something" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

meant something

Focuses on the significance or implication behind an action or statement.

designed something

Highlights the planning and creation aspect with a specific purpose in mind.

aimed for something

Emphasizes the goal or target that was set.

had something in mind

Suggests a pre-existing idea or plan.

had designs on something

Implies a strategic plan, often with a possessive or manipulative connotation.

purposed something

Formally expresses a determined intention or resolution.

envisioned something

Stresses the mental picture or anticipation of a future outcome.

planned for something

Highlights the structured arrangement and preparation for a specific outcome.

contemplated something

Focuses on the thoughtful consideration or deliberation before taking action.

foresee something

Emphasizes the ability to predict or anticipate a future event or outcome.

FAQs

What does "intended something" mean?

The phrase "intended something" means to have had a specific purpose or plan in mind. It suggests that there was a goal or aim behind an action or creation.

What are some alternatives to "intended something"?

Alternatives include "meant something", "designed something", or "aimed for something", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I use "intended something" in a sentence?

You can use "intended something" to describe the purpose behind an action or creation. For example, "The artist intended something profound with their work."

Is "intended something" formal or informal?

"Intended something" is relatively neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though alternatives might be more suitable depending on the specific situation.