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purpose

[pur-puhs] / ˈpɜr pəs /
NOUN
intention, meaning, aim
Synonyms
STRONGEST
ambition aspiration desire determination direction function goal idea intent objective plan principle project reason scheme scope view wish
STRONG
animus bourn calculation design destination dream drift end expectation hope mecca mission object point premeditation proposal proposition prospect resolve will
WEAK
big idea intendment ulterior motive whatfor where one's headed whole idea why and wherefore whyfor
Antonyms
STRONGEST
dislike hate hatred
STRONG
beginning start
NOUN
persistence, resolve
Synonyms
STRONGEST
determination faith
STRONG
confidence constancy firmness resolution single-mindedness steadfastness tenacity will
Antonyms
STRONGEST
doubt
STRONG
instability uncertainty weakness
NOUN
use
Synonyms
STRONGEST
benefit duty effect function goal objective outcome result
STRONG
advantage avail gain good mission object profit return utility
Antonyms
STRONGEST
beginning cause origin source
STRONG
disadvantage loss
VERB
intend, set sights on
Synonyms
STRONG
aim aspire commit conclude consider contemplate decide design determine mean meditate mind plan ponder propose pursue resolve
WEAK
bid for have a mind to have in view make up one's mind think to work for work toward
Antonyms
STRONG
begin discard dismiss disregard forget hesitate ignore neglect reject start stop wait waver

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Each doctrine answered a question: What is America’s purpose in the world?

From MarketWatch

We know that the chatter is serving its purpose, which is to start the conversation.

From The Wall Street Journal

Though Venezuela holds the world’s largest proven oil reserves, the petrostate today pumps less than 1% of global crude supplies and much of its production capacity and infrastructure is unfit for purpose.

From The Wall Street Journal

This level of control allows plastics to be designed with lifespans that fit their purpose.

From Science Daily

Pyongyang described his removal as a "wanton violation of the UN Charter and international laws with respect for sovereignty, non-interference and territorial integrity as their main purpose".

From Barron's

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.