What does for all intensive purposes mean?

‘For all intensive purposes’ is a common mispronunciation and misspelling of the phrase for all intents and purposes.

As ‘intensive’ is an adjective meaning ‘highly concentrated’ or ‘requiring great effort’, it doesn’t make sense in this expression. Instead, you need the plural noun ‘intents’, meaning ‘intentions’ or ‘designs’.

Scribbr’s Free Grammar Checker can help ensure you’re using phrases like ‘for all intents and purposes’ correctly in your writing.

For All Intents and Purposes | Meaning & Examples

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This is the “editing” in Scribbr’s standard service. It can only be selected in combination with proofreading.

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Select the Structure Check and Clarity Check to receive a comprehensive edit equivalent to a line edit.

Developmental editing (i.e. content editing, substantive editing)
This is the first step of the editing process and applies to very early drafts. The editor helps you structure your ideas, decide what story to tell and find direction for your writing. No.
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If you don’t choose one, your editor will follow the style of English you currently use. If your editor has any questions about this, we will contact you.

Types of editing	Available at Scribbr?
Proofreading Correction of superficial mistakes, such as typos, misspellings, punctuation errors and consistency errors.	Yes! This is the “proofreading” in Scribbr’s standard service. It can only be selected in combination with editing.
Copy editing Focus on grammar, syntax, style, tone and the conventions of the field. The editor also considers the internal logic of the text and flags any obvious contradictions.	Yes! This is the “editing” in Scribbr’s standard service. It can only be selected in combination with proofreading.
Line editing Focus on language, style, concision and choices. The editor helps you strengthen your story, polish your sentences and ensure that your use of language drives home your ideas.	Yes! Select the Structure Check and Clarity Check to receive a comprehensive edit equivalent to a line edit.
Developmental editing (i.e. content editing, substantive editing) This is the first step of the editing process and applies to very early drafts. The editor helps you structure your ideas, decide what story to tell and find direction for your writing.	No. This kind of editing involves heavy rewriting and restructuring. Our editors cannot help with this.

Frequently asked questions

What does for all intensive purposes mean?

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Frequently asked questions

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