Meanings of 意向
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Podcast: 意向
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AI study notes for 意向
意图 (yìtú) — use 意向 for formal contexts like negotiations, while 意图 is more general and can imply a broader range of intentions.
Be careful not to confuse 意向 with similar terms like 意思 (yìsi), which means 'meaning' or 'opinion.' 意向 is more formal and often used in written contexts. Common collocations include '表达意向' (to express intention) and '商业意向' (business intent).
As an HSK 6 word, focus on how 意向 can be used in complex sentences. It connects well with other words related to intention and decision-making, such as 决定 (juédìng, to decide) and 计划 (jìhuà, plan). Understand its usage in formal discussions.
Learners often use 意向 interchangeably with 意图 (yìtú), which means 'intention' but has a more negative nuance. For example, saying '他的意图很明显' (His intention is obvious) would be inappropriate when referring to a positive intent, as it implies ulterior motives.
Pronunciation of 意向
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Component characters
How to say intention in Chinese
“intention” in Chinese is意向
意向 refers to a person's intention or purpose behind their actions or decisions. It is often used in formal contexts, such as business negotiations or legal documents, to signify the underlying motivation or desired outcome of a proposal or agreement.
When to use 意向
Be careful not to confuse 意向 with similar terms like 意思 (yìsi), which means 'meaning' or 'opinion.' 意向 is more formal and often used in written contexts. Common collocations include '表达意向' (to express intention) and '商业意向' (business intent).
意向 or something close to it
意图 (yìtú) — use 意向 for formal contexts like negotiations, while 意图 is more general and can imply a broader range of intentions.
What learners get wrong
Learners often use 意向 interchangeably with 意图 (yìtú), which means 'intention' but has a more negative nuance. For example, saying '他的意图很明显' (His intention is obvious) would be inappropriate when referring to a positive intent, as it implies ulterior motives.
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Practice writing 意向 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar patterns of 意向
意向 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 5 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
好，那么我们已经一致同____北走了？
Okay, so are we agreed on going north?
Example sentences for 意向 (1)
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Frequently asked questions about 意向
You can say '我对这个项目的意向很明确' (My intention regarding this project is very clear).
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