purposeful

/ˈpɜːrpəsfəl/
done with intention and determination

She made a purposeful decision to change her career path.

She made a decision with clear intention and determination to change her career.


formalinformal

Having or showing a clear intention or purpose; deliberate and determined

His purposeful walk suggested he knew exactly where he was going.

His walk was deliberate and determined, showing he knew his destination.

She gave a purposeful nod to indicate her agreement.

She nodded in a deliberate and intentional way to show she agreed.

Often used to describe actions, movements, or decisions that are intentional and goal-oriented.

Collocations

purposeful actionan action done with clear intentionpurposeful walka walk that is deliberate and determinedpurposeful decisiona decision made with clear intention

Pro Tip

Common Usage

Use 'purposeful' to describe actions, movements, or decisions that are intentional and goal-oriented.

Word Origin

From 'purpose' (intention) + '-ful' (full of), first recorded in the late 16th century.

Usage Notes

Often used to describe people, actions, or decisions that are intentional and goal-driven. Can be positive (showing determination) or neutral (simply indicating intention).

Word Breakdown

purpose
intention or aim
root
+
-ful
full of
suffix
English Dictionary