Translation guide
The English word 'intentional' describes actions done on purpose, with awareness and will. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through adjectives, adverbs, verbs, and grammatical patterns that emphasize volition, planning, or deliberateness. The most common and versatile equivalent is 意図的 (itoteki), but other options like 故意 (koi) or the auxiliary verb 〜ようとする (~you to suru) are used depending on context, formality, and nuance.
Expressing that an action was done with conscious intent, not by accident. This is the most common meaning.
A standard, neutral adjective meaning 'intentional' or 'deliberate'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese. Can describe actions, decisions, or behaviors.
彼の行動は意図的だった。
His actions were intentional.
それは意図的なミスではない。
That wasn't an intentional mistake.
Often used in legal or formal contexts to mean 'willful' or 'with intent'. Carries a slightly negative connotation, implying wrongdoing or malice. Common in phrases like 故意に (koi ni, 'intentionally').
Often implies malicious intent; avoid for neutral or positive intentional actions.
A common adverb meaning 'on purpose' or 'deliberately'. Used in casual conversation. Often implies a slightly mischievous or obvious intent.
わざと負けたの？
Did you lose on purpose?
Also used as an adverb with に (itoteki ni), meaning 'intentionally'. Slightly more formal than わざと.
Emphasizing that something was thought out in advance, not spontaneous.
Focusing on the aim behind an action, often used in formal or strategic contexts.
Literally 'having a purpose'. Used to describe actions or behaviors that are goal-oriented.
彼の行動は目的を持っていた。
His actions were intentional (purposeful).
Expressing that someone tries to do something or acts with volition. This is a grammatical way to convey intentionality in Japanese.
Attached to the volitional form of a verb, meaning 'try to do' or 'attempt to do'. It implies an intentional effort. The action may or may not succeed.
彼は逃げようとした。
He tried to escape (intentionally).
Highlighting awareness or consciousness behind an action, often in psychological or philosophical contexts.
意図的 (itoteki) is the most general and neutral term for 'intentional'. 故意 (koi) is stronger and often implies malicious or legal intent, similar to 'willful'. わざと (waza to) is casual and often used when the intent is obvious or slightly mischievous. Choose based on formality and connotation.
While 意図的 is a direct equivalent, Japanese often expresses intentionality through verb forms (〜ようとする) or adverbs (わざと). Using 意図的 in every context can sound unnatural or overly formal. Consider the grammatical structure of the whole sentence.
He intentionally broke the window.
彼はわざと遅刻した。
He was intentionally late.
He intentionally avoided the topic.
Means 'planned' or 'systematic'. Used when an action is part of a plan or strategy. Often used in negative contexts like crimes.
それは計画的な犯行だ。
It was a premeditated crime.
A phrase meaning 'planned in advance'. More descriptive than 計画的.
その旅行は前もって計画された。
The trip was planned in advance.
The attributive form of 意図的, directly modifying nouns. Equivalent to 'intentional'.
それは意図的な選択だった。
It was an intentional choice.
I tried to open the door, but it was locked.
Expresses intention or plan. 'I intend to...' or 'I plan to...'. Used for future intentional actions.
明日、早く起きるつもりだ。
I intend to wake up early tomorrow.
Using the adverb わざと with a verb to mean 'do something on purpose'. Casual and common.
彼はわざと私を無視した。
He intentionally ignored me.
Means 'conscious' or 'intentional'. Used when someone is aware of their actions. Can be neutral or positive.
彼は意識的に深呼吸をした。
He intentionally took a deep breath.
Means 'self-aware' or 'conscious of one's own actions'. More introspective than 意識的.
彼は自覚的にその道を選んだ。
He consciously chose that path.
彼はわざと遅れた。
He was intentionally late. (natural)
彼は意図的に遅れた。
He was intentionally late. (overly formal/stiff)
彼はわざと遅れた。
He was intentionally late. (natural)
彼は意図的に遅れた。
He was intentionally late. (overly formal/stiff)