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purpose
/ˈpɜːrpəs/
intention or objective
The purpose of this meeting is to discuss our project goals.
The reason for the meeting is to talk about what the team aims to achieve.
general
The reason for which something is done or created; an intention or objective.
She explained the purpose of the experiment to the students.
She described why the experiment was being conducted.
The purpose of this tool is to simplify data analysis.
This tool is designed to make analyzing data easier.
Can also refer to a person's sense of direction or meaning in life.
Collocations
serve a purposeto fulfill a function or roleto the purposesuitable or relevant to the goalof no purposeuseless or pointless
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Use
In formal writing, 'purpose' is often used to describe objectives or goals. In everyday speech, it can also refer to a sense of direction in life.
Gold Rule
Clarity in Communication
When stating a purpose, be clear and specific to avoid misunderstandings.
Word Origin
From Middle English *purpose*, from Old French *porpos* (modern French *propos*), from Latin *propositum* (thing proposed), from *proponere* (to propose), from *pro-* (before) + *ponere* (to place).
Usage Notes
Often used in formal or professional contexts to describe goals or intentions. Can also refer to a broader sense of meaning in life.
Word Breakdown
pur-
before, forward
prefix-pose
to place, propose
rootEnglish Dictionary