Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

intensional

Adjective

/ɪnˈtɛnʃənəl/

Definition

Relating to the intention or meaning behind something, especially in contrast to its extension or what it refers to in the real world.

Examples

The intensional definition of a term focuses on its defining properties.
In the study of linguistics, understanding intensional meaning can clarify how words relate to each other.
Her intensional approach to the topic revealed deeper insights into its implications.

Meaning

Intensional is often used in logic and philosophy to describe properties or conditions that depend on the inherent meaning of a term, rather than its external references.