intended spouse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intended spouse" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or formal contexts to refer to a person who is planned to be married or is engaged to be married. Example: "In the event of my death, I wish to leave my assets to my intended spouse."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Radames is also the object of affection and intended spouse of Amneris, an Egyptian princess.

The New York Times

Nothing in the act, major amendments adopted in 1965 or the legislative history since then suggests that Congress intended "spouse" to include a person of the same sex (although, in 1990, Congress removed homosexuality as a grounds for exclusion).

The New York Times

9. Don't spring a prenuptial agreement on your intended spouse a few days before the wedding.

Huffington Post

Her ill-feeling towards the King increased when he refused, and advised his two surviving brothers to similarly refuse, to give precedence to her intended spouse, Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Barrett doesn't just sell wedding dresses: her brides can also order engraved invitations, multitiered cakes, and floral arrangements; they can outfit bridesmaids and, from the tuxedo-rental department, intended spouses and their attendants.

The New Yorker

Only later did Mr. Michaud learn that he was wearing the pin intended for spouses; the members' pin is round, with a gold eagle on a white background.

The New York Times

However, factors for low attendance were: male partners intending their spouse to carry another pregnancy (adj.PRR 0.83; 95%CI 0.71, 0.97) and living more than 5 Km from a health facility (adj.PRR 0.83, 95%CI 0.70, 0.98).

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

According to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights drawn up in 1948, a "marriage shall be entered into only with the free and full consent of the intending spouses".

Huffington Post

His lawyer has said he never intended for his spouse to be harmed.

The New York Times

The apps that you'll be using are intended for parents, spouses, or employers to monitor the activity of their children, spouses, or employees.

WikiHow

Mr Blunkett later admits he had been wrong to give a rail warrant intended for MPs' spouses to his married lover.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal or legal writing, "intended spouse" can be used to clearly and precisely identify someone who is expected to be married, especially in documents like wills or prenuptial agreements.

Common error

Avoid using "intended spouse" in casual conversations or informal writing; it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for terms like "fiancé" or "future spouse" in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intended spouse" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject or object within a sentence. It identifies a person who is planned or expected to become someone's spouse. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is generally considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "intended spouse" is a grammatically correct noun phrase that is used to refer to a person someone plans to marry. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is accurate and well-formed. It's primarily found in formal contexts such as legal documents, prenuptial agreements, or official communications, as it clearly defines a relationship. While grammatically correct, it is best to avoid using it in casual conversations, as it may sound overly formal. For less formal alternatives, consider using terms like "future spouse" or "fiancé". Though not frequent, the sources using the phrase are authoritative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Future spouse

Focuses on the spousal relationship at a later time.

Prospective spouse

Emphasizes the potential or likelihood of becoming a spouse.

Betrothed

Implies a formal engagement or promise to marry.

Fiancé or fiancée

More common terms for an engaged person, differentiated by gender.

Spouse-to-be

Informal way to refer to the person who will become a spouse.

Future husband/wife

Specifies gender of the intended spouse.

Partner in marriage

Highlights the partnership aspect of marriage.

Affianced partner

Synonymous of 'betrothed', formal and less common.

Intended life partner

Adds the dimension of a long-term commitment and shared life.

Future mate

Informal and less common way to refer to future spouse.

FAQs

When should I use the term "intended spouse"?

The term "intended spouse" is most appropriate in formal contexts such as legal documents, wills, or contracts where a precise and unambiguous reference to a future spouse is required.

What's a less formal alternative to "intended spouse"?

For less formal situations, you can use alternatives like "future spouse", "fiancé", or "partner" depending on the specific context.

Is "intended spouse" the same as "fiancé" or "fiancée"?

While similar, "intended spouse" is a broader term that refers to someone you plan to marry. "Fiancé" (male) or "fiancée" (female) specifically denote someone who is engaged to be married.

How does "intended spouse" differ from "prospective spouse"?

"Intended spouse" suggests a stronger commitment and plan for marriage, whereas "prospective spouse" implies a possibility or consideration of marriage but without a firm decision yet.