Tend vs. Intend

In this lesson, we're gonna discuss all the differences and similarities between 'tend' and 'intend'. If you're still interested in learning, join me.

What Is Their Main Difference?

Both refer to being inclined to do something or behave in a particular way. However, 'tend' usually arises from external forces, whereas, 'intending' to do something comes from one's internal decision, planning, etc.

Differences

'Tend' is mainly about being influenced by external forces to behave or act in a particular way. Look at the examples below:

Girls tend to avoid being materialistic nowadays.

Boys tend to be more open about their emotions nowadays.

'Intend', however, is more about planning something and then acting accordingly. In other words, when someone 'intends' to do something, they are not influenced by external forces, but rather the tendency comes from their internal world. Look at the following examples:

The manager has intended to hire new employees for the vacant positions in the company.

From now on, I intend to do as I please.

Similarities

Both indicate behaving or being inclined to do something in a certain, special way. Check out the examples below:

She said she intends to communicate with her employees directly.

People tend to use electronic books more than paper ones these days.

Are They Interchangeable?

Although they look very similar, they are in fact ver different, so it is better not to use them interchangeably. Compare:

✓ I intend to start m own business soon.

X I tend to start m own business soon.

As you can see, this one is not correct.

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