cross purposes

NOUN

conflicting purposes

Synonyms

WEAK

contrary purpose crossed wires misunderstanding mutual misunderstanding

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.

Coming at cross purposes, some of these people will fail.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

For good reason: The gigs are at total cross purposes!

From Slate • Apr. 19, 2025

“Animal welfare” is sometimes misused as a synonym for “animal rights,” but in practice the two worldviews can sometimes be at cross purposes.

From New York Times • Apr. 23, 2024

The military isn’t the only institution to find itself at cross purposes with young Americans.

From Washington Times • Dec. 26, 2023

Winston had the feeling that they were talking at cross purposes.

From "1984" by George Orwell