内 意(ないい)

ないい

noun

real intention; private opinion; inner feelings

formalwrittenbusinesscognition

1. real intention; private opinion; inner feelings

One's true thoughts or feelings that are not openly expressed. Often refers to an unofficial or private intention that differs from what is publicly stated.

上司(じょうし)の内意(ないい)を探(さぐ)る。

To probe the boss's real intentions.

内意(ないい)を確認(かくにん)してから正式(せいしき)に提案(ていあん)する。

I'll confirm their private intentions before making a formal proposal.

社長(しゃちょう)の内意(ないい)を受(う)けて、人事異動(じんじいどう)の準備(じゅんび)が進(すす)められた。

Following the company president's private wishes, preparations for personnel changes were advanced.

Usage

A formal word used in business and political contexts. 内(ない) means "inner" and 意(い) means "intention." Refers to wishes or opinions that have not been made official or public. Often used when describing behind-the-scenes decision-making.

Common collocations

内意(ないい)を探(さぐ)る (to probe someone's real intentions)
内意(ないい)を確認(かくにん)する (to confirm private intentions)
内意(ないい)を受(う)ける (to receive someone's private wishes)

Similar words

本音(ほんね): true feelings — more colloquial and broader in scope
真意(しんい): true intention — focuses on the genuine meaning behind words or actions
意向(いこう): intention, inclination — can be public or private

Related Words

Synonym: 本音(ほんね) (true feelings (colloquial))

Compare: 真意(しんい) (true intention)

Compare: 意向(いこう) (intention, inclination)

general

Added 2026.3.18 13:36 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01

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