Examples
Meaning
〜つもりだ means that you intend to do something or plan not to do something. It shows a personal intention that is already in your mind.
Formation
Use the dictionary form before つもりだ for a positive intention. Use the ない form before つもりだ for an intention not to do something.
Usage
Use this pattern when talking about future plans, study goals, travel plans, work plans, or personal decisions. It is often used in polite speech as 〜つもりです.
Nuance
〜つもりだ sounds firmer than simply saying 〜と思う. It suggests that the speaker has already decided to some degree, though the plan can still change.
Comparison
〜予定だ often refers to an arranged schedule. 〜つもりだ focuses more on personal intention. 来月行く予定です can sound scheduled, while 来月行くつもりです emphasizes your intention.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using the ます form before つもり. Say 行くつもりです, not 行きますつもりです. Another mistake is using 〜つもり for someone else's intention without enough context.
Related Grammar
〜ようと思う
〜ようと思う (you to omou) expresses that you are thinking of doing something or have an intention to do it. It is softer than a firm plan.
〜ことにする
〜ことにする (koto ni suru) means to decide to do or not do something. It focuses on the speaker's decision.
〜予定だ
〜予定だ (yotei da) is used for plans or schedules. It often sounds more arranged or objective than a simple personal intention.