intent on causing trouble

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intent on causing trouble" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is determined or focused on creating problems or disturbances. Example: "The group of teenagers was intent on causing trouble, vandalizing property and disturbing the peace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

However, a small number of people came intent on causing trouble".

Independent

"It now seems that those who claim to have the Travellers' interests at heart are more intent on causing trouble and disorder".

The Guardian

"The reality is that about 300 or 400 people came here intent on causing trouble and it really wouldn't have mattered what time of the day that was.

The Guardian

Though gangs are not thought to be targeting the carnival, the police have identified a number of people who seem intent on causing trouble.

The Guardian

It was once described by a British judge as a "human form of bear baiting" due to its toxic combination of lie-detector tests, seething family feuds and an irascible presenter seemingly intent on causing trouble.

Independent

Coming back to take a point off Croatia was a fluke and a freak, helped largely by the unruly mob supporting the opposition that were intent on causing trouble.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Anyone who has the intent of causing trouble at the polls should be forewarned that they will not get away with it because voters will be watching them like a hawk".

Huffington Post

Labour's argument is that the activities of its chairs show a deeper intent to cause trouble in the Commons.

The Guardian

"Kinshasa may be a dream but Nkunda seems intent on causing more trouble if he doesn't get what he wants," says a diplomat.Outsiders may do more to help—at least to tackle the desperate plight of civilians.

The Economist

"Kinshasa may be a dream but Nkunda seems intent on causing more trouble if he doesn't get what he wants," says a diplomat.Outsiders have so far done little to help.

The Economist

They suggest that from its very inception, life has been troubled by predators intent on causing death.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "intent on causing trouble" to clearly convey a deliberate intention to disrupt or create problems, especially when describing groups or individuals with a specific agenda.

Common error

Avoid using "intent on causing trouble" when the actions are accidental or unintentional. The phrase implies a conscious and purposeful effort to create problems.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intent on causing trouble" functions as a descriptive phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a deliberate purpose or intention to create problems or disturbances. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "intent on causing trouble" is a descriptive phrase indicating a deliberate intention to create problems or disturbances. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and usable. It's commonly found in news and media contexts, conveying a negative connotation. Related phrases include "bent on making mischief" and "determined to instigate problems". When using this phrase, it's important to ensure the actions described are truly intentional. Although grammatically sound and used across various sources, one should always consider appropriateness to the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

determined to instigate problems

Emphasizes a firm decision to start issues.

resolved to generate conflict

Emphasizes a firm decision to create disagreement.

aiming to provoke disorder

Highlights the goal of disrupting order.

set on stirring up strife

Highlights the intention to create conflict.

wanting to foment discord

Focuses on creating disagreement between people.

bent on making mischief

Focuses on playful disruption rather than serious harm.

eager to foment unrest

Suggests enthusiasm in inciting disturbance.

focused on creating mayhem

Suggests a concentration on producing chaos.

motivated to ignite chaos

Highlights the underlying drive to create disorder.

hell-bent on raising hell

Uses an idiomatic expression to convey a strong desire to cause trouble.

FAQs

How can I use "intent on causing trouble" in a sentence?

This phrase is used to describe someone who is determined to create problems or disturbances. For example, "The protesters seemed "intent on causing trouble" during the political rally."

What are some alternatives to "intent on causing trouble"?

You can use alternatives like "bent on making mischief", "determined to instigate problems", or "set on stirring up strife" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "intent on causing trouble" in formal writing?

Yes, it is appropriate, especially in news reports or analytical pieces. However, ensure the tone matches the overall formality of your writing. Alternatives might be preferable in very formal contexts.

What's the difference between "intent on causing trouble" and "causing trouble"?

"Intent on causing trouble" implies a deliberate plan or desire to create problems, while "causing trouble" can refer to either intentional or unintentional actions that lead to disruption.