Cool MatePurpose
UK /["/ˈpɜːpəs/"]/US /["/ˈpɜːrpəs/"]/
Definition
the intention, aim or function of something; the thing that something is supposed to achieve
In simple words: The reason for doing something or what something is meant to do.
Examples
- The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the new project.
- He searched for the purpose of life among various philosophies.
- Every object has a purpose, even if we do not always understand it.
- The purpose of this exercise is to improve your vocabulary skills.
- They built the community center with the purpose of helping local families.
Usage notes
Use 'purpose' when discussing goals, intentions, or functions. It's suitable in both formal and informal contexts, but avoid using it in casual chats where simpler words like 'reason' might work better.
Grammar pattern
have + purpose
Memory hint
Think of 'purpose' as 'pursue a goal'. Both words start with 'pur'.
Collocations
- limited
- chief
- main
- have
- lack
- accomplish
- for a/the purpose
- on purpose
- at cross purposes
- for the express purpose of something
- with the express purpose of something
- limited
- chief
- main
- have
- lack
- accomplish
- for a/the purpose
- on purpose
- at cross purposes
- for the express purpose of something
- with the express purpose of something
- limited
- chief
- main
- have
- lack
- accomplish
- for a/the purpose
- on purpose
- at cross purposes
- for the express purpose of something
- with the express purpose of something
Synonyms
- determination
Antonyms
- aimlessness
- meaninglessness
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'pose' — don't mix the two words.
- Using 'purposed' as the past tense — 'purposed' is incorrect.
- Incorrectly using 'purpose' as a verb — it is a noun.