意向 yìxiàng intention
intention; purpose; intent; inclination; disposition
How to remember 意向: 意 idea + 向 towards = intention.
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How it is used
- A leaning or intention toward doing something, often in a semi-formal/negotiation context - 合作意向 (hézuò yìxiàng) intention to cooperate, 意向书 (yìxiàngshū) letter of intent.
- Weaker and more tentative than 决定 (juédìng, decision): it signals inclination, not commitment.
- Business and official register; contrast 意图 (yìtú) below, which is more concrete and can be negative.