〜Vる / N + つもりだった

Pattern
〜Vる / N + つもりだった
Level
N4
Reading
つもりだった
Meaning
Intended to ~ (but something prevented it)
Attaches to
Verb (dictionary form / nai-form), Noun + の
Nuance & register

Expresses a past intention or plan that was not realized, often due to unforeseen circumstances. It conveys a sense of disappointment or a change from the original plan.

Example

週末は旅行に行くつもりだったが、仕事が入ってしまった。

Easily confused with

「〜つもりだ」 (expresses a current intention) vs. 「〜つもりだった」 (expresses a past intention that was not fulfilled, often implying regret or a change of plans).

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