1.
true intention, real meaning
The genuine intention or actual meaning behind someone's words or actions. Often used when the surface meaning differs from what is truly meant.
彼の真意がわからない。
I can't understand his true intention.
その発言の真意を探ろうとした。
I tried to probe the real meaning behind that remark.
真意が伝わらず、誤解を招いてしまった。
My true intention didn't come across, and it led to a misunderstanding.
USAGE:
Used when referring to the genuine intention or underlying meaning that may not be immediately apparent. Often appears in contexts involving communication difficulties, political statements, or interpersonal misunderstandings.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 真意を探る: to probe someone's true intention
- 真意を問う: to question the real meaning
- 真意が伝わる: for one's true intention to be conveyed
- 真意を測りかねる: to be unable to gauge the true intention