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

Example 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 Unlike most slip-on sneakers, this one has laces, and every one of its details feels intentional: from that sumptuous texture right down to the dependable, supportive rubber sole that’s anything but bulky. Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 25 June 2025 Why any of this intentional drama-conjuring would make its participants’ lives easier is a mystery. Rich Juzwiak, Time, 25 June 2025 As more celebrations spread throughout the south and, more recently, the East Coast, folks have become more intentional about honoring the day. Essence, 24 June 2025 The transitions here from song to song feel very intentional. Mackenzie Cummings-Grady, Billboard, 23 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for intentional
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intentional
Adjective
  • Without deliberate human judgment, AI will only amplify hustle habits that keep us busy with everything, rather than prioritizing the few things that truly matter.
    Melissa Daimler, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025
  • Instead, the change has occurred through the deliberate erosion of fundamental norms related to belonging and through the weaponization of once neutral institutions.
    ASHLEY J. TELLIS, Foreign Affairs, 17 June 2025
Adjective
  • Paloma Wool Originating in Barcelona, Paloma Wool specializes in conscious garments and accessories to be worn as an art form, where getting dressed is not just a necessity, but an expression of oneself.
    Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 24 June 2025
  • Much has been made about the conscious uncoupling of Devers and the Red Sox last Sunday.
    Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 20 June 2025
Adjective
  • In recent days, the U.S. began pulling some diplomats from Iraq’s capital and offering voluntary evacuations for the families of U.S. troops in the wider Middle East.
    Christopher Bodeen, Chicago Tribune, 21 June 2025
  • While admission to the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is free, voluntary donations of $4 for adults and $2 for children are welcome.
    Molly Guthrey, Twin Cities, 19 June 2025
Adjective
  • Collateral arrest is when ICE agents are looking to arrest a person who is undocumented but an additional undocumented person, who was not the intended target, happens to be present; the agents can detain them as well, according to Immigrant Justice.
    Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado, Sacbee.com, 13 June 2025
  • The intended target was immediately unknown to Newsweek.
    Anna Commander Tom O'Connor, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Intentional.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intentional. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on intentional

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