For men, there are many different kinds of tattoo design ideas which are not at all similar in design to tattoos that women prefer.
These days these are a popular choice, especially symbols and words that they feel have a great meaning in their lives. Usually they are connected to ones culture and heritage. Some people like to have entire paragraphs inked unto their bodies. Shorter versions of these are words of love for their loved ones or phrases of inspiration. Some men who are more aware of the implications of having a tattoo may prefer smaller tattoos which are not visible or conspicuous when they are at work or with other people. Another popular tattoo design is a cross (with many men and also with some women). This can be small enough to be hidden or as large as one wants. It can be designed in such way that it can look either plain or intricate.
The design for a tattoo depends on the preferences of the person who wants to have the tattoo and what he/she tells the tattoo artist to do. It might be an event in his/her life which has inspired him/her to have a tattoo done which is described to the tattoo artist. The actual design can be a commemoration of the said event.