One of the most common things we talk about in everyday conversation is our plans — what we’re going to do today, tomorrow, or even next year. In Japanese, a super useful expression for this is 〜つもり.

Let’s break it down so you can start using it to sound more natural and confident!

What is 〜つもり?

The phrase 〜つもり is used to express your intention or plan to do something. It’s similar to saying “I plan to…” or “I intend to…” in English.

How to Use 〜つもり

There are two common forms:

1. Verb (dictionary form) + つもりです

To say you plan to do something.

Example:
来年らいねん、日本にほんに行いくつもりです。
I plan to go to Japan next year.

2. Verb (nai-form) + つもりです

To say you don’t plan to do something.

Example:
今日きょうはテレビを見みないつもりです。
I don’t plan to watch TV today.

Example Sentences

Here are a few more examples to help you get the hang of it:

• 夏休なつやすみにアルバイトをするつもりです。
  I plan to work a part-time job during summer vacation.
• 今週こんしゅうはずっと家いえにいるつもりです。
  I intend to stay home all week.
• タバコをやめるつもりです。
  I plan to quit smoking.
• 今日きょうのパーティーには行いかないつもりです。
  I don’t plan to go to today’s party.

Casual Form

In casual speech, especially with friends, you can drop the 「です」:

• 映画えいがを見みに行いくつもり。
• 勉強べんきょうしないつもり。

It still means the same, just sounds more relaxed!

Practice Time!

Try translating these into Japanese using 〜つもり:

1. I plan to study Japanese every day.
2. I don’t plan to go out tomorrow.
3. He plans to buy a new phone.
4. We don’t intend to eat meat.
5. She plans to move to Tokyo.

Bonus Tip

Sometimes Japanese people say まだ決きめていません (I haven’t decided yet) instead of using つもり — so if you’re unsure of your plan, try that phrase instead!

Now you can start expressing your plans in Japanese like a pro!

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