Examples
Meaning
〜ようと思う means that you think you will do something or are intending to do it. It expresses an intention that is still connected to the speaker's thoughts.
Formation
Use the volitional form of a verb and add と思う. For example, 行く becomes 行こうと思う, and 勉強する becomes 勉強しようと思う.
Usage
Use this pattern when talking about what you are thinking of doing soon or in the future. 〜ようと思っています can show an intention you have had for some time.
Nuance
This pattern is softer and more reflective than 〜つもりだ. It often sounds like the speaker is sharing a current thought or intention rather than announcing a fixed plan.
Comparison
〜つもりだ sounds more decided. 〜ことにする emphasizes the act of deciding. 〜ようと思う sits between a thought and an intention.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using the dictionary form before と思う. Say 行こうと思います, not 行くと思います when you mean that you intend to go. 行くと思います usually means you think someone will go or something will happen.
Related Grammar
〜つもりだ
〜つもりだ (tsumori da) expresses an intention or plan that the speaker has decided on. It is common for talking about future actions.
〜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.