How to Say “To Intend” in Italian
Intendere
One of the most straightforward translations of “to intend” is the verb intendere. This verb is a cognate of the English word “intend”, which means it looks and sounds similar.
However, while intendere can be used to express intention, it often carries a more formal tone or is used in specific contexts. It is commonly used when you want to express meaning or purpose, often with a slight implication of deeper understanding.
For instance, I frequently use it when I want to convey that I aim to do something or that I mean something in a particular way, for example:
Non intendo offenderti.
I don’t intend to offend you.
In this case, you want to clarify that your purpose is not to cause offense. However, in casual conversations intendere sounds formal and is often reserved for situations where the meaning is precise.
Notice that it is always followed by a verb in the infinitive tense, which expresses what you are intending.
Avere Intenzione di
For me, the best and most direct translation is avere intenzione di which literally means “to have the intention to”. This expression is especially useful when your intent is clear and specific, for example:
Ho intenzione di viaggiare in Italia quest’estate.
I intend to travel to Italy this summer.
Hai intenzione di studiare stasera?
Do you intend to study tonight?
In these examples, avere intenzione di makes the intention explicit. It’s the equivalent of saying “I am planning to” or “I am committed to”, so it works well when your intention is firm and decided.
Just like intendere, also this expression is always followed by an infinitive verb. Make sure you never forget the preposition di!
Pensare di
A softer translation is pensare di, which literally means “to think of”, to express that you’re simply considering an action rather than committing to it.
It reflects a state of consideration, perfect for when you’re still undecided or weighing your options, as in the following examples:
Sto pensando di cambiare lavoro.
I’m thinking of changing jobs.
Pensi di venire alla festa domani?
Do you intend to come to the party tomorrow?
In these examples, pensare di is used to suggest that you’re contemplating a decision but haven’t fully committed to it. A very common synonym is considerare which means “to consider” and conveys the same nuance of intention that isn’t yet final.
Again, remember the structure preposition di + infinitive verb.
Volere
As simple as it is, another common way to convey this meaning is with the modal verb volere (to want). It is often used to express intention to do something, especially when that intention is closely tied to personal desire or preference.
Voglio imparare l’italiano.
I intend to learn Italian.
Vuoi andare al cinema?
Do you intend to go to the cinema?
Although volere technically translates to “want”, it frequently overlaps with the concept of intention in Italian. When you say you want to do something, you’re often implying that you intend to do it as well.
This is why I could not avoid showing you this translation as well, as volere is a straightforward and effective way to express intention.
If you know Italian modal verbs already, then you know that these are always followed by an infinitive verb and require no preposition.
Avere in Programma
Bonus translation: avere in programma, which literally means “to have something planned”. To be precise, programma in Italian means “program”, “plan”, “schedule”.
This expression can be used both with nouns and present infinitive verbs:
Ho in programma un viaggio il prossimo anno.
I have planned a trip for next year.
Domani abbiamo in programma di visitare un antico castello.
We have planned to visit an ancient castle tomorrow.
Choosing between these different expressions of intention depends largely on the level of commitment you want to convey and the context in which you’re speaking.
Personally, if I think of the verb “to intend” in English, I automatically translate it as avere intenzione di, but different expressions provide different nuances.
So here I want to provide you with a quick guide to help you navigate these differences:
- Intendere: use this in more formal contexts or when you are discussing meaning or conveying purpose. Perfect to express something precise or nuanced.
Non intendo causare problemi.
I don’t intend to cause problems.
- Avere intenzione di: use this phrase when your intention is clear, concrete, and planned. It’s versatile and can be used in a variety of situations, from casual to formal.
Ho intenzione di cambiare casa l’anno prossimo.
I intend to move houses next year.
- Pensare di: use this when you’re still thinking about doing something but haven’t made a final decision. It’s a softer expression of intent.
Sto pensando di iscrivermi a un corso di yoga.
I’m thinking of signing up for a yoga class.
- Volere: choose this when your intention is closely tied to a desire or want. It’s a simple and direct way to express intention when the driving force is your personal desire.
Voglio iniziare a cucinare di più.
I intend to start cooking more.
- Avere in programma: use this when you organized something and are quite sure you will be doing that. It conveys more a meaning of schedule, yet it is used to express your intentions.
Ho in programma di pulire la cucina oggi.
I planned to clean the kitchen today.
