true intent

USAGE SUMMARY

"true intent" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize purpose or resolve, denoting a strong commitment to something. For example, "He promised to make a difference in his community with true intent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Everyone knows the law's true intent.

The New York Times

Is there true intent to shock?

The Guardian - Arts

Republicans say that statement showed the Democrats' true intent.

The New York Times

But his true intent was never for our simple delight.

The Guardian - Arts

Some, on both sides of the house, suspected this was in fact Mr Cameron's true intent.

The Economist

Suspecting treachery, the Hittite ruler sent an emissary to learn the queen's true intent.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The true intent, Ms. Winters said, is far more nuanced, and slower-moving.

The New York Times

But some critics said the document was a window on the government's true intent.

The New York Times

One, get the Supreme Court to enforce the C.D.A.'s true intent.

The New Yorker

Respondents invoke a competing fundamental consideration -- the need to determine the voter' s true intent.

The New York Times

The cruise ships have appropriated the old Butlins slogan that "Our true intent is all for your delight".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When analyzing motivations, consider whether "true intent" is benevolent, malevolent, or simply pragmatic.

Common error

Avoid using "true intent" when a simpler term like "purpose" or "reason" suffices. Overusing "true intent" can make your writing sound unnecessarily suspicious or accusatory.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "true intent" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in English. It is used to identify the genuine purpose or motivation behind an action, statement, or policy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "true intent" is a noun phrase used to denote the genuine purpose or motivation behind an action, statement, or policy, often when it is suspected to be different from the stated purpose. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media, scientific analysis, and encyclopedia entries. The phrase serves to reveal or question underlying motivations, especially in situations where there may be deception or hidden agendas. While generally neutral in register, it is most fitting in contexts requiring analytical or critical evaluation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

real intention

Focuses on the genuineness of the intention.

actual purpose

Emphasizes the factual or existing goal.

underlying motive

Highlights the hidden or less obvious reason.

genuine objective

Stresses the authenticity of the objective.

ulterior motive

Suggests a concealed, often self-serving reason.

real motivation

Highlights the authentic drive behind an action.

true objective

Focuses on the real goal, rather than a stated one.

fundamental reason

Points to the core or basic cause.

hidden agenda

Implies a secret plan or goal.

core purpose

Emphasizes the essential or central aim.

FAQs

How can I use "true intent" in a sentence?

You can use "true intent" to describe the real purpose behind someone's actions, often when it is suspected to be different from what is stated. For example, "The politician's speech masked his "true intent" to raise taxes."

What's a good alternative to "true intent"?

Depending on the context, alternatives like "real intention", "actual purpose", or "underlying motive" can be used.

Is "true intent" formal or informal?

"True intent" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is more common in analytical or critical writing, where uncovering hidden motivations is important.

What is the difference between "true intent" and "ulterior motive"?

"True intent" simply refers to the actual purpose, while "ulterior motive" suggests a hidden, often self-serving, reason. The latter carries a more negative connotation.