Definition of intentionalnext

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 The Hoffmans are suing Boelter for assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 24 June 2026 The oversized tee and wide-leg pants keep things relaxed, while the matching print makes the outfit feel intentional. Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 24 June 2026 Matching lounge sets rival pajamas in comfort—but look that much more elevated because of the intentional matching element. Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 24 June 2026 Was that an intentional choice? Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for intentional
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intentional
Adjective
  • Another telling detail was that the fungi in the surrounding dirt didn’t match the species that chose to bond with the moss, suggesting a deliberate relationship was present.
    Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 21 June 2026
  • On the film’s romantic dimension, the director was equally deliberate.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 20 June 2026
Adjective
  • Firefighters have declared the blaze knocked down but will stay on scene for flare-ups as demolition begins, while officials promise a health-conscious cleanup that minimizes impacts on surrounding residents.
    Jazmin Alvarado, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026
  • Anderson’s more low-key reveal could be chalked up to such factors as the union was her husband’s second, as well as the ongoing political unrest and cost-conscious consumers.
    Rosemary Feitelberg, Footwear News, 26 June 2026
Adjective
  • In April, the company offered its first voluntary buyouts.
    Sebastian Herrera, Fortune, 27 June 2026
  • The order described participation by AI developers as voluntary but the framework has not yet been fully developed.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 27 June 2026
Adjective
  • The plaintiffs have also accused Bayer of negligence and misrepresentation of Roundup's safety in its marketing, and have alleged that the product was defective for its intended purpose.
    Diana Novak Jones, USA Today, 25 June 2026
  • Just avoid overinvesting at the same time to allow your other assets to perform as intended.
    Matt Richardson, CBS News, 17 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Intentional.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intentional. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.

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