possible intention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "possible intention" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the potential motives or aims behind an action or statement. Example: "The possible intention behind her words was to encourage the team to work harder."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Within 30 lines of his opening, Milton states the boldest possible intention: he plans to "justifie the ways of God to men".

The Guardian - Opinion

Commercial satellite imagery taken a few weeks ago suggests that North Korea is upgrading its main launch facility with the possible intention of handling both larger and more mobile missiles, a Washington-based research institute that monitors the country said Tuesday.

The New York Times

August 2011: MI5 passed intelligence to the police regarding Adebolajo's possible intention to be involved in the London riots.

BBC

"Finally, in October 2009 Khan traveled to Yemen with the possible intention of making hijra".

Vice

Operating on a level of ridiculousness so high it suggests possible intention, Lee Daniels' The Paperboy is a trash pile packed high, high and higher still.

Huffington Post

Oooh lawd!" One possible intention here is a visual reminder of the many unknown souls that drowned and possibly took their place by Mami Wata's side during Katrina.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Our own state has made some serious blunders in this area - always with the best possible intentions, of course.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The findings of this investigation prompt questions that go beyond what it set out to achieve, namely whether something was said and its possible intentions.

The Guardian

The dog's possible intentions (for example, receiving a pat on the head), feelings, and awareness of self become the focus of the investigation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But also, because it misses the real causes of inaccurate information – the fact that we knowingly run public services in a way that is bound to produce inaccurate data – even if everyone is acting with the best possible intentions.

The Guardian

Aleksandr Lebedev's background prompted speculation about his possible intentions when he added the British papers to a business empire that included an investment in the Russian newspaper Novaya Gazeta, a frequent critic of Prime Minister Vladimir V. Putin.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "possible intention", ensure that the context clearly indicates the degree of uncertainty or speculation involved. Avoid using it when a more definitive intention is known.

Common error

Avoid using "possible intention" when the action is already underway or the intention is reasonably clear. Overusing the word "possible" can weaken your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "possible intention" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "possible" modifies the noun "intention". As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. Examples found in Ludwig, showcase this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "possible intention" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a potential or uncertain motive. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. While not extremely common, it is frequently found in news, scientific, and wiki sources. When writing, it's best to use this phrase when emphasizing uncertainty and to avoid overuse in situations where the intention is already clear. Related phrases, such as "potential motivation" or "conceivable aim", can provide nuanced alternatives depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

potential motivation

Replaces "intention" with "motivation", focusing on the underlying reason for an action.

conceivable aim

Substitutes both words for alternatives that convey a similar degree of possibility and purpose.

imaginable objective

Uses "imaginable" and "objective" to suggest a goal that can be conceived, but may not be likely.

projected plan

Emphasizes the aspect of planning and foresight, indicating an intention that has been mapped out.

speculative design

Highlights the tentative and theoretical nature of the intention, focusing on a design or blueprint.

presumed goal

Suggests the intention is inferred or assumed, rather than explicitly stated.

feasible purpose

Focuses on the practicality and achievability of the intention, implying it's a workable aim.

prospective scheme

Highlights the planned and organized nature of the intention, often with a slightly negative connotation.

underlying rationale

Shifts the focus to the reason or justification behind an action, implying a hidden or less obvious intention.

future aspiration

Emphasizes the forward-looking nature of the intention, suggesting a long-term goal.

FAQs

How can I use "possible intention" in a sentence?

You can use "possible intention" to describe a potential aim or motive behind someone's actions. For example: "The spy's actions raised questions about his "possible intention" to betray his country."

What are some alternatives to "possible intention"?

Alternatives include "potential motivation", "conceivable aim", or "speculative design". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "possible intention"?

While "intention" inherently implies a degree of planning and potentiality, "possible intention" is not necessarily redundant. It can be used to emphasize the uncertainty or speculative nature of the intention being discussed.

How does "possible intention" differ from "definite intention"?

"Possible intention" suggests an uncertain or speculative motive, while "definite intention" implies a clear and firmly established plan. The key difference lies in the level of certainty.