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原本意图
yuánběn yìtú
original intention
他原本意图是帮助别人，但结果却适得其反。
His original intention was to help others, but it backfired.
formal
The initial or intended purpose behind an action or decision.
警方调查发现，嫌犯的原本意图并非伤害无辜。
The investigation revealed that the suspect's original intention was not to harm the innocent.
软件开发者强调，原本意图是简化用户操作流程。
The developer emphasized that the original intention was to simplify user workflows.
Often used in legal, technical, or analytical contexts to clarify the true purpose behind an action.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Contextual Clarity
In legal or technical contexts, '原本意图' is used to contrast with '实际效果' (actual outcome) or '表面动机' (stated motivation). For example: '原本意图是提高效率，但实际效果适得其反' (The original intention was to improve efficiency, but the actual outcome was counterproductive).
Gold Rule
Avoid Literal Translation Pitfalls
Do not translate '原本意图' as 'original plan' or 'initial design' unless the context explicitly refers to planning phases. The phrase emphasizes *motivation* or *purpose*, not methodology.
Word Origin
Composed of '原本' (originally, at first) and '意图' (intention, purpose). Both terms are classical Chinese compounds; '意图' dates back to pre-Qin philosophical texts, while '原本' reflects the concept of inherent nature or original state.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in formal writing, news reports, or analytical discussions to distinguish between stated goals and actual motives. Often appears in phrases like '出于原本意图' (based on the original intention) or '偏离原本意图' (deviate from the original intention).
Word Breakdown
原本
originally, at first
adverb意图
intention, purpose
noun汉英词典