N4 · Structured courses

~you to Omou: Intend To

Learn to express intentions and plans with the volitional form + to omou/to omotteiru. This lesson combines form, context, examples, common mistakes, and practice so you can use the pattern in real communication.

12 minNihongo Hub Editorial TeamPublished 2026-06-06Updated 2026-06-06

Learning objectives

  • Lesson goals: Learn to express intentions and plans with the volitional form + to omou/to omotteiru.
  • Form and connection: [Verb volitional form] と思おもう
  • Nuance in real use: ようと思う lives in the gray zone between "thinking about it" and "deciding" — you're not 100% sure yet, but you're seriously considering it. Japanese speakers favor this expression because it leaves room to change your mind.

Form and connection

[Verb volitional form] と思おもう

Core Explanation

Learn to express intentions and plans with the volitional form + to omou/to omotteiru.

Cultural Note

ようと思う lives in the gray zone between "thinking about it" and "deciding" — you're not 100% sure yet, but you're seriously considering it. Japanese speakers favor this expression because it leaves room to change your mind.

Practical examples

I'm thinking of studying abroad next year.
I intend to exercise every day.
He seems to be thinking about quitting his job.

Common pitfalls

Build the base form before adding the pattern

Complete the required conjugation first. Do not keep polite and plain endings at the same time.

Match politeness to the situation

The examples are reliable starting points; relationships and context can still change the most natural wording.

Practice and answers

1. Write the connection formula for this lesson.
Show answer[Verb volitional form] と思おもう
2. Explain the meaning of the first example.
Show answerI'm thinking of studying abroad next year.
3. Rewrite the final example using this lesson pattern.
Show answer彼かれは会社かいしゃを辞やめようと思おもっているようです。 ([Verb volitional form] と思おもう)

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