Intensific

Intensific is a nonstandard English term that appears rarely in linguistic or stylistic discussions. It is not widely recognized in major dictionaries and does not have a fixed, agreed-upon definition. When it does occur, it is often described as a back-formation from the verb intensify or as a playful or hypothetical label used to illustrate the concept of increasing intensity in meaning or force.

Usage and context are typically limited to theoretical or explanatory writing. Because intensific is not established in standard usage, it is not suitable for formal writing. If encountered, authors usually clarify the intended sense—whether they mean a verb meaning “to make more intense” or a nominal label for a device, process, or category that increases intensity. In most contexts, established terms provide clearer communication.

In standard English, preferred terms include intensify (to make more intense), intensifier (a word that increases emphasis), and intensification (the process or result of increasing intensity). The nonstandard form intensific offers little advantage over these well-attested options and is generally relegated to informal, experimental, or hypothetical discussion.

See also: intensify, intensifier, intensification.