an anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions

• his intent was to provide a new translation
• good intentions are not enough
• it was created with the conscious aim of answering immediate needs
• he made no secret of his designs

• purpose
• intent
• intention
• aim
• design

what something is used for

• the function of an auger is to bore holes
• ballet is beautiful but what use is it?

• function
• purpose
• role
• use

the quality of being determined to do or achieve something; firmness of purpose

• his determination showed in his every movement
• he is a man of purpose

• determination
• purpose

propose or intend

• I aim to arrive at noon

• aim
• purpose
• purport
• propose

reach a decision

• he resolved never to drink again

• purpose
• resolve