有意 vs 存心

有意 and 存心 both mean "intentional" or "on purpose", but they differ in tone, usage, and emotional connotation.

1. 有意 (yǒuyì) – "Intentional" (Neutral or Positive, Planned Action)

Meaning & Usage:

• "Intentionally," "deliberately," "on purpose" (neutral or positive connotation).
• Often used for planned actions, formal decisions, or purposeful behavior.
• Can also mean "to have an intention to do something" (e.g., "有意合作" = "intend to cooperate").
• Less negative than 存心 (usually not used for malicious actions).

Examples:

1. Neutral/Positive Intentions:
   • 他有意帮助我。 (He intentionally helped me.)
   • 这家公司有意扩大市场。 (This company intends to expand its market.)
2. Planned Actions:
   • 她有意选择了这个时间。 (She deliberately chose this time.)

2. 存心 (cúnxīn) – "On Purpose" (Negative, Often Malicious or Stubborn Intent)

Meaning & Usage:

• "On purpose," "deliberately" (usually negative or stubborn intent).
• Often implies malice, stubbornness, or ill will.
• Stronger and more accusatory than 有意.
• Sometimes used to criticize someone for being stubborn or unreasonable.
• Can also mean "to harbor ill intentions" (e.g., "他存心捣乱" = "He deliberately caused trouble").

Examples:

1. Negative/Malicious Intent:
   • 他存心捣乱。 (He deliberately caused trouble.)
   • 你存心气我是不是？ (Are you purposely trying to make me angry?)
2. Stubborn/Unreasonable Behavior:
   • 他存心不听劝告。 (He stubbornly refused to listen to advice.)

Key Differences Summary

When to Use Which?

1. Use 有意 for neutral or positive intentions (planned actions, formal decisions).
2. Use 存心 for negative or stubborn behavior (malicious actions, unreasonable stubbornness).