Do people even know that it's wrong?

Question

Why do people say "for all intensive purposes"? I have seen this in print and have heard it on TV (usually from someone being interviewed). Do they realize that they sound incredibly stupid?

Hey les, I'm not misunderstanding the phrase, that is the point of my question, that people are saying it wrong.

For those who are oblivious to the point of my question, the phrase is supposed to be, "for all intents and purposes." I'm asking why people are stupid and use/say it as "intensive purposes". I don't need to be corrected.

Answer 1

I think you are misunderstanding the phrase. I think it's "for all intents and purposes" which is entirely different!

Answer 2

Obviously they don't realize that they sound incredibly stupid, or they wouldn't say it. I mean, when you think about it, what is so special about "intensive" purposes? Are they any better or worse than "non-intensive" purposes? And, who defines what an "intensive" purpose is, as opposed to a "non-intensive" purpose? And, wouldn't a "intensive" purposes be different for different people?

Just for the record, the correct phrase is, "For all intents and purposes". It means that no matter what, the thing you are talking about is true in all circumstances.

First, if there are "intensive purposes" there have to be "non-intensive purposes", because how could you logically define a purpose as "intensive" if there was not a "non-intensive purpose" to contrast it with?

When people use the phrase, what they mean is that whatever they are talking about will be true in all circumstances. If you say, "for all intensive purposes", what you are really saying is that whatever you are talking about will not be true in circumstances that involve "non-intensive purposes". And that goes counter to the point you are trying to make.

I think some people are just lazy and only repeat what they THINK they hear, without actually thinking about what comes out of their mouths.
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Answer 3

Whew! I'm glad I don't have to explain to you the correct meaning of the phrase. Why people misinterpret it, is simple. People mimic what they hear, and to most ears it does sound like "intensive purposes". I've actually never seen it written that way, but I have heard (and used) the expression many times, myself. Also, it could be the fault of the one who coined the phrase in the first place.

English is probably one of the most difficult languages in the world, as far as pronunciations, spelling and definitions are concerned. When you stop to think about it, "intensive purposes" would also have a meaning to some folks. But the phrase, on its face value, actually means "practical". "All intents and purposes", is an idiomatic expression that has long become a cliche in the business world. Why not just use it in a sentence like this: "The project promises to be one of the most innovative and employee-friendly changes our corporation has done, and for all PRACTICAL reasons, should have been implemented years ago."

Answer 4

dark,

You have hit on one of my pet peeves. I think Americans need "intensive" training in audio discrimination!!!!!!

For all intents and purposes people are hearing/listening impaired.

I see many people complaining about the spelling on this forum. I don't see spelling as the main problem. The problem is that too many people do not really hear the language, therefore, better readers are usually better speakers in terms of enunciation and diction.

Listen really listen to young children sing traditional songs and carols. It is a hoot when children make a few goofs. When teenagers and adults are still making those mistakes it is tragic.

Answer 5

The correct phrase is "for all intents and purposes." A bit redundant, but it makes a point.

Answer 6

For all intents and purposes, they are basically saying it is a done deal

Answer 7

I haven't seen that, but isn't it typical of today's lack of vocabulary and poor grammar. tut tut in my day etc etc....
lol

Answer 8

we have been trained to write like we talk and talk like we hear and never think or you will be drugged more then likely, LOL