Meaning and Usage
"意思" (いし) primarily means "intention" or "purpose." It is used to express what someone plans or wants to do, often reflecting a conscious decision or will.
Common Contexts
You will often see "意思" used in formal or semi-formal contexts, such as business discussions, personal decisions, or when clarifying someone's intentions.
Collocations and Patterns
- 意思を伝える: to convey one's intention clearly
- 意思を固める: to make up one's mind
- 意思表示: expression of intention
These phrases are useful when discussing decisions or communicating what you want to do.
Nuances and Tips
When using "意思," the speaker implies a deliberate or thoughtful intention rather than a spontaneous feeling. It is more formal than casual words like "気持ち" (feelings) or "考え" (thoughts).
A common learner mistake is confusing "意思" with "意志" (also read いし), which means "willpower" or "volition." Remember, "意思" focuses on intention or purpose, while "意志" emphasizes determination or resolve.