intentional

An intentional act or decision means you mean to do something on purpose.

When we talk about being intentional, it usually means making choices and taking actions that are thoughtful and deliberate. For example, if someone says they're trying to eat more healthily because they want to be fit for a wedding, their intention is to look good in the photos. Or, when you decide to spend less money this month so you can save up for a trip next year, your intention is to have enough money for that vacation.

The word intentional also means not being accidental or unconscious. If someone accidentally breaks something, it wasn't an intentional act – they didn't mean to cause harm. But if someone says "I meant to take that vase" after breaking it, their action was indeed intentional.

In a broader sense, some people use the term intentionality when talking about philosophy or psychology, referring to the idea of being aware and in control of your thoughts and actions. However, for most everyday conversations, the meaning is more straightforward: doing something on purpose with a clear goal in mind.