so intent on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "so intent on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is very focused or determined about a particular task or goal. Example: "She was so intent on finishing her project that she lost track of time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But he adds: "He was so intent on that one thing, on collecting data.

The New York Times

I'd been so intent on having a natural conversation with one of my idols I hadn't actually pressed record.

The Guardian

So why are you so intent on deep spending cuts?

The New York Times

Why is Germany so intent on banning the NPD?

The Guardian - Opinion

Why then are academics so intent on obfuscation?

The Guardian - Books

Why are the Congressmen so intent on having their road?

The New York Times

Why is this servant so intent on imitating his master?

The New York Times

Why would he be so intent on defending them?

The New York Times

"Maharishi was so intent on participating and hearing, and he took great satisfaction.

The New York Times - Magazine

So why is Groupon so intent on going public in a bad I.P.O.

The New York Times

Mr. Hampson was so intent on maintaining subdued dignity that his singing was sometimes underpowered.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "so intent on," consider the tone you wish to convey. While it generally indicates focus, in some contexts, it might suggest an excessive or obsessive preoccupation. Make sure the word choice aligns with the intended tone.

Common error

Avoid overusing "so intent on" in highly formal or academic writing. While grammatically correct, consider more nuanced alternatives like "highly focused on" or "deeply engaged in" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "so intent on" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, followed by a preposition. It describes the subject's state of being focused or determined. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Arts

17%

Books

15%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "so intent on" effectively conveys a strong focus or determination. It is grammatically correct and, according to Ludwig, is widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, remember to adjust your word choice depending on the formality of your writing. For more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "highly focused on". By understanding its nuances and appropriate usage, you can enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

so focused on

Replaces "intent" with "focused", emphasizing concentration.

so determined to

Shifts the emphasis to resolve and purpose.

so fixated on

Suggests an almost obsessive level of attention.

so engrossed in

Highlights being completely absorbed by something.

so preoccupied with

Indicates being mentally dominated by a particular thing.

deeply immersed in

Emphasizes a profound level of engagement.

hell-bent on

Suggests a reckless determination to achieve something.

dead set on

Implies an unwavering commitment to a decision or goal.

single-minded about

Highlights a focused and unwavering approach.

completely absorbed in

Conveys a sense of being entirely consumed by an activity.

FAQs

What does "so intent on" mean?

The phrase "so intent on" means being very focused, determined, or dedicated to achieving something. It implies a strong level of concentration and commitment.

How can I use "so intent on" in a sentence?

You can use "so intent on" to describe someone's focus or determination. For example, "She was "so intent on" finishing her project that she worked through the night."

What are some alternatives to "so intent on"?

Alternatives to "so intent on" include "so focused on", "so determined to", or "so engrossed in", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

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

While grammatically correct, "so intent on" might sound less formal. In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "highly focused on" or "deeply engaged in" to maintain a more sophisticated tone.