Understanding the Japanese Expression つもりです to Express Intent

What is つもりです?

The expression つもりです is used in Japanese to indicate intention or volition to do something. It is akin to saying, "I plan to" or "I intend to" in English. This phrase is particularly useful in everyday conversation, allowing speakers to express their future intentions clearly and politely.

Basic Structure of つもりです

To form a sentence using つもりです, use the following structure:
Verb (plain form) + つもりです
This construction conveys the speaker's intention to perform the action described by the verb.

Expressing Negation with つもりはありません

To express the intention of not doing something, modify the expression to つもりはありません. This phrase communicates a definitive avoidance of an action.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

A common mistake learners make is confusing つもりです with similar expressions like でしょう or たい. While all can express forms of intent or likelihood, つもりです specifically denotes a personal plan or decision.

Practice and Mastery

Practice forming sentences with つもりです to become comfortable using it in everyday conversations. Try creating your own sentences expressing various intentions and verify them with a fluent speaker or through language learning resources. The more you practice, the more natural expressing your intentions in Japanese will become.