Synonym Chooser

How is the word intentional different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of intentional are deliberate, voluntary, and willing. While all these words mean "done or brought about of one's own will," intentional stresses an awareness of an end to be achieved.

the intentional concealment of vital information

When is deliberate a more appropriate choice than intentional?

The words deliberate and intentional are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, deliberate implies full consciousness of the nature of one's act and its consequences.

deliberate acts of sabotage

In what contexts can voluntary take the place of intentional?

Although the words voluntary and intentional have much in common, voluntary implies freedom and spontaneity of choice or action without external compulsion.

a voluntary confession

When could willing be used to replace intentional?

In some situations, the words willing and intentional are roughly equivalent. However, willing implies a readiness and eagerness to accede to or anticipate the wishes of another.

willing obedience

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of intentional Superintendent says teacher's actions 'were intentional,' threatens termination The lawsuit says Cahall was punished under the policy for having four books in her classroom that had LBGTQ characters in them. Madeline Mitchell, The Enquirer, 6 Dec. 2024 The law at the time said the neglect needed to be intentional. John Diedrich, Journal Sentinel, 5 Dec. 2024 Gates admits the recurring theme of making sense of the world around us during transformational periods of history wasn’t intentional. Christiaan Hetzner, Fortune, 4 Dec. 2024 Every sound is intentional and thoughtful, rewarding the patient listener with slow unfolding of textures. Spin Team, SPIN, 28 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for intentional 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intentional
Adjective
  • This deliberate approach can ensure that your practice remains effective, accessible and dependable.
    Jeffrey Wessler, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024
  • Speaking with Variety, Screwvala explained how RSVP emerged from a deliberate pause after his UTV exit.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 13 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Soft Goat Cashmere Soft Goat delivers on both conscious and affordable investment pieces with a plush feel.
    Cortne Bonilla, Vogue, 6 Dec. 2024
  • She executive produces through her Simpson Street banner, which is devoted to bringing socially conscious, inclusive stories of marginalized voices and communities to all audiences through film and TV.
    Kerry Washington, IndieWire, 3 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Previously, under former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the government attempted to agree a voluntary AI copyright code of practice.
    Ryan Browne, CNBC, 17 Dec. 2024
  • The voluntary recall was announced on Friday, December 13—10 days after VidaSlim's products were added to an FDA warning about toxic yellow oleander.
    Raja Krishnamoorthi, Newsweek, 16 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Repurposing an item does require a bit of creative thinking, so look beyond the intended purpose of a piece.
    Jennifer Prince, Southern Living, 4 Dec. 2024
  • Pam will refocus the DOJ to its intended purpose of fighting Crime, and Making America Safe Again.
    Tara Suter, The Hill, 2 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near intentional

Cite this Entry

“Intentional.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intentional. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on intentional

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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