is this intentional

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is this intentional" is grammatically correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to ask whether an action or event is intentional or not. For example, "The floor is wet. Is this intentional?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

You seem to have maintained a pretty regular workrate over your career, is this intentional that you don't want to dwell on a project for too long like some artists, is it self imposed or just how long it takes to make stuff?

The Guardian - Music

Is this intentional?

The New York Times

Is this intentional neglect?

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Was this intentional?

The New Yorker

Was this intentional, or because the artist ran out of time to finish them?

The New York Times

Was this intentional on your part?

Huffington Post

"Why is this not intentional discrimination?" Chief Justice Roberts asked.

The New York Times

"Now, why is this not intentional discrimination?" he asked.

The New Yorker

Was this an intentional part of the storytelling?

HuffPost

"This is entirely intentional".

The Economist

This is therefore intentional".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is this intentional", ensure the context clearly defines what "this" refers to, avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming intent without sufficient evidence. Asking "is this intentional" should be a genuine inquiry, not an accusatory statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is this intentional" functions as an interrogative clause. It seeks to determine whether a particular action, event, or outcome was deliberate or planned. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is this intentional" is a common and grammatically correct way to inquire whether an action or event was planned or accidental. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves as an interrogative clause used to clarify the purpose behind an event, helping to understand responsibility and expectations. While its register is generally neutral, it's frequently found in news and media sources. When using the phrase, ensure the context is clear to avoid ambiguity and to prevent assumptions. Consider related phrases like "was this done on purpose" or "was this a deliberate act" for alternative phrasing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was this done on purpose

Rephrases the question to directly ask about the purpose behind the action.

was this a deliberate act

Focuses on whether the action was carefully planned and executed.

was this premeditated

Emphasizes whether the action was planned in advance.

was this by design

Highlights if the event or action was created according to a plan or specification.

did you mean to do this

A direct question asking if the person intended to perform the action.

was this meant to happen

Explores whether the outcome was intended or coincidental.

was this an accident

Inquires whether the action was unintentional.

is this a conscious decision

Focuses on whether the decision was made with full awareness.

is this a knowing choice

Questions if the action was chosen with full knowledge of the consequences.

did this happen by accident

Asks if the event occurred unintentionally or randomly.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "is this intentional" in a more formal way?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "was this action deliberate?", "was this by design?", or "was this a "conscious decision"?".

What's the difference between "is this intentional" and "did you mean to do this"?

"Is this intentional" is more general and can refer to an event or outcome. "Did you mean to do this" is more direct and asks specifically about someone's intent in performing an action. Consider using alternatives such as "was this done on purpose?".

When is it appropriate to ask "is this intentional"?

Use "is this intentional" when you are genuinely unsure if an action or event was planned or accidental. It's suitable when seeking clarification without making assumptions. Be direct and eventually use alternatives such as "was this by design?".

What are some less direct ways to ask "is this intentional"?

You can use less direct phrasing like "I'm wondering if this was planned" or "was this meant to happen?" depending on the specific context. Try also "was this an accident?"