purpose
A purpose is the reason for which something is done or created, or for which something exists. It describes the goal or the specific intention you have when you perform an action.
Examples
3 of 5What is the purpose of this plastic tool?
What is the reason for using this plastic tool?
The purpose of this meeting is to decide on a new manager.
The goal of this meeting is to pick a new manager.
I didn't break your toy on purpose!
I didn't break your toy intentionally!
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'PRO-pose'. If you 'propose' (suggest) an idea, you must have a 'purpose' (a reason) for it.
Quick Quiz
I am so sorry I spilled the juice; I didn't do it ___ purpose.
Correct!
The correct answer is: on
Examples
What is the purpose of this plastic tool?
everydayWhat is the reason for using this plastic tool?
The purpose of this meeting is to decide on a new manager.
formalThe goal of this meeting is to pick a new manager.
I didn't break your toy on purpose!
informalI didn't break your toy intentionally!
The purpose of the experiment was to test the new medicine.
academicThe aim of the scientific test was to check the new medicine.
The primary purpose of our company is to help small businesses grow.
businessThe main objective of our company is to help small businesses grow.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
on purpose
intentionally, not by accident
all-purpose
useful for many different things
to no purpose
without achieving any result; uselessly
Often Confused With
Propose is a verb meaning to suggest a plan; purpose is a noun meaning the reason for a plan.
A goal is a specific result you want to reach, while purpose is the deeper reason why you want to reach it.
Usage Notes
The word 'purpose' is most commonly used as a noun to explain 'why'. It is frequently used in the structure 'the purpose of [something] is to [verb]'.
Common Mistakes
Learners often say 'by purpose' when they mean 'on purpose'. Always use 'on' when you mean something was done intentionally.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'PRO-pose'. If you 'propose' (suggest) an idea, you must have a 'purpose' (a reason) for it.
Word Origin
Derived from the Old French word 'porpos', which means an aim, intention, or a design.
Grammar Patterns
Quick Quiz
I am so sorry I spilled the juice; I didn't do it ___ purpose.
Correct!
The correct answer is: on
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
The final part or the conclusion of something, such as a per...
designA detailed plan or scheme that outlines the functional and a...
planTo decide on and arrange in advance a set of actions to achi...
designA design is a plan or drawing produced to show the look and...
functionThe purpose or special duty that a person or thing has. It c...
motiveRelating to motion or the power that produces movement. In a...
Related Words
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blameworthy
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