つもり (Tsumori)

What Does “Tsumori” Mean?

The word “tsumori” (つもり) is used to express intention or plan in Japanese. It roughly translates to “I plan to…”, “I intend to…”, or “I’m going to…” depending on the context.

It indicates that the speaker has the intention or plan to do something, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that the action will definitely happen. It’s about the intention or the plan, which might be subject to change.

Structure of “Tsumori”

“Tsumori” is used with the plain form (dictionary form) of verbs to indicate intention. The basic structure is:

Verb (plain form) + つもり (tsumori)

For example:

行くつもり 
(iku tsumori) 
"I plan to go"

食べるつもり 
(taberu tsumori) 
"I plan to eat"

The “tsumori” itself doesn’t change for tense, but the verb in front of it will reflect the time frame of the action.

How to Use “Tsumori” in a Sentence

The structure for using “tsumori” in a sentence is simple and follows this pattern:

<Verb in plain form> + つもり

Example Sentences:

日本に行くつもりです。
(Nihon ni iku tsumori desu.)
"I plan to go to Japan." (This indicates a plan, but it may not happen for sure.)

来週、勉強するつもりです。
(Raishuu, benkyou suru tsumori desu.)
"I intend to study next week."

今日は早く寝るつもりです。
(Kyou wa hayaku neru tsumori desu.)
"I plan to go to bed early today."

When to Use “Tsumori”

Making Plans or Intentions

“Tsumori” is used when expressing that you have plans or intentions to do something in the future. However, it’s important to note that it doesn’t guarantee the action will happen—it simply indicates your current intention or expectation.

Example:

この映画を観るつもりです。
(Kono eiga o miru tsumori desu.)
"I plan to watch this movie."

Expressing Future Actions

It’s often used to describe future actions or things that you intend to do, giving the sense that you’re setting up an intention for what’s next.

Example:

明日、友達と会うつもりです。
(Ashita, tomodachi to au tsumori desu.)
"I plan to meet my friend tomorrow."

Expressing Personal Decisions or Expectations

You can also use “tsumori” to convey personal decisions or expectations about what you plan to do. This can sometimes include things that seem more certain, though it remains an intention rather than a guarantee.

Example:

来年、大学に進学するつもりです。
(Rainen, daigaku ni shingaku suru tsumori desu.)
"I plan to go to university next year."