Inklingo

How to Say "intention" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “intention” is “plan” — use this for a simple, straightforward plan or what you aim to do, often in casual conversation..

plan🔊A1

Use this for a simple, straightforward plan or what you aim to do, often in casual conversation.

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intenciónA2

This is the most direct translation for 'intention' when referring to a specific plan or idea held in your mind that you intend to carry out.

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idea🔊A2

Use this when 'intention' means a general thought or a proposed course of action, similar to a suggestion.

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propósitoA2

Choose this when 'intention' implies a deeper aim or objective, often related to one's goals or reasons for doing something.

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mente🔊A2

Use this specifically when referring to something you 'have in mind' or are thinking about, often as part of the phrase 'tener en mente'.

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voluntad🔊B2

This translates 'intention' when it refers to goodwill or a deliberate act driven by a specific purpose or motive, often in more formal contexts.

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English → Spanish

plan

/plahn//plan/

NounA1General
Use this for a simple, straightforward plan or what you aim to do, often in casual conversation.
A cartoon character standing at the start of a winding, colored path that leads toward a star, symbolizing steps and intentions for the future.

Examples

¿Cuál es el plan para esta noche?

What's the plan for tonight?

Tenemos un plan para mejorar las ventas de la empresa.

We have a plan to improve the company's sales.

Mi plan es viajar por Sudamérica el próximo año.

My plan is to travel through South America next year.

It's a Masculine Noun

Even though 'plan' doesn't end in -o, it's a masculine word. Always say 'el plan' (the plan) or 'un plan' (a plan).

Using 'la' instead of 'el'

Mistake: “La plan es bueno.”

Correction: El plan es bueno. Remember that 'plan' is masculine.

intención

nounA2General
This is the most direct translation for 'intention' when referring to a specific plan or idea held in your mind that you intend to carry out.

Examples

Mi intención es viajar por Sudamérica el próximo año.

My intention is to travel through South America next year.

idea

/ee-DEH-ah//iˈðe.a/

NounA2General
Use this when 'intention' means a general thought or a proposed course of action, similar to a suggestion.
A clear, winding path made of stepping stones leading directly to a brightly colored destination flag on a hilltop.

Examples

La idea es llegar antes de las ocho.

The plan is to arrive before eight.

Mi idea era viajar por Europa este verano.

My intention was to travel through Europe this summer.

La idea es que todos participen.

The point is for everyone to participate.

Suggesting Plans with 'La idea es que...'

When you use 'La idea es que...' to talk about a plan for someone else, the next verb often changes into a special form (the subjunctive). For example, 'La idea es que tú vengas' (The plan is for you to come).

propósito

nounA2General
Choose this when 'intention' implies a deeper aim or objective, often related to one's goals or reasons for doing something.

Examples

¿Cuál es tu propósito en la vida?

What is your purpose in life?

mente

/men-tay//ˈmen.te/

NounA2General
Use this specifically when referring to something you 'have in mind' or are thinking about, often as part of the phrase 'tener en mente'.
A simplified illustration showing the profile silhouette of a human head, filled entirely with colorful, swirling clouds and small, glowing lightbulbs to represent active thought and intellect.

Examples

Tengo muchas cosas en la mente ahora mismo.

I have a lot of things on my mind right now.

Es importante mantener una mente abierta y flexible.

It's important to keep an open and flexible mind.

Su nombre no me viene a la mente en este momento.

His name doesn't come to mind at this moment.

Always Feminine: 'la mente'

'Mente' is a feminine noun, so it always uses 'la' or 'una'. For example, you would say 'una mente brillante' (a brilliant mind), not 'un mente brillante'.

Confusing 'Mente' (Mind) and 'Cerebro' (Brain)

Mistake: “Me duele la mente.”

Correction: Say 'Me duele la cabeza' (My head hurts). 'Mente' is the abstract concept of your thoughts and intellect, while 'cerebro' is the physical organ. You can't feel pain in your 'mente'.

voluntad

/boh-loon-TAHD//bolunˈtad/

nounB2Formal/General
This translates 'intention' when it refers to goodwill or a deliberate act driven by a specific purpose or motive, often in more formal contexts.
A young child standing outside at night, looking up toward a single bright star with an expression of longing, symbolizing making a wish.

Examples

Ella actuó de buena voluntad, pensando que ayudaría.

She acted out of good will, thinking it would help.

El director ha respetado la voluntad del equipo.

The director has respected the team's wishes (or intention).

Fue un error, lo juro, no fue mi voluntad.

It was a mistake, I swear, it was not my intention.

Against Your Will

If you are describing an action done against someone's wishes, use the preposition 'contra' (against), such as: 'Lo hicieron contra su voluntad' (They did it against her will).

Plan vs. Intención

Learners often confuse 'plan' and 'intención'. While both relate to what you want to do, 'plan' is more casual and about the immediate steps, whereas 'intención' refers to a more established or formal aim. Use 'plan' for simple arrangements and 'intención' for your deeper goals or specific commitments.

Related Translations

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