Words / B1

in-TENS/ɪnˈtens/

Intense means very strong: intense heat; intense pressure; intense competition. Intensive is about a lot of activity in a short time (an intensive course) — related but not the same. Strong is everyday. Intensity is the noun. Do not use intense for a slightly busy afternoon; keep it for something extreme.

Meaning

Very strong, serious, or extreme.

Examples

• “The competition for places is intense this year.”
• “Competition for the graduate posts was intense.”
• “The intense heat closed outdoor markets by noon.”

Good to know

intense heat / pressure / competition. Contrast: intensive = concentrated activity (a course). Everyday: strong. Not a mildly busy day.

Near in meaning

strong

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