intention, intent, purpose, design, aim, end, object, objective, goal mean what one intends to accomplish or attain.

intention implies little more than what one has in mind to do or bring about.

intent suggests clearer formulation or greater deliberateness.

purpose suggests a more settled determination.

design implies a more carefully calculated plan.

aim adds to these implications of effort directed toward attaining or accomplishing.

end stresses the intended effect of action often in distinction or contrast to the action or means as such.

object may equal end but more often applies to a more individually determined wish or need.

objective implies something tangible and immediately attainable.

goal suggests something attained only by prolonged effort and hardship.

plan, design, plot, scheme, project mean a method devised for making or doing something or achieving an end.

plan always implies mental formulation and sometimes graphic representation.

design often suggests a particular pattern and some degree of achieved order or harmony.

plot implies a laying out in clearly distinguished sections with attention to their relations and proportions.

scheme stresses calculation of the end in view and may apply to a plan motivated by craftiness and self-interest.

project often stresses imaginative scope and vision.