not to the purpose

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.

I had brought the Portuguese things to the notice of English readers long before Mr. Astley did so, but that is not to the purpose.

From The Clyde Mystery a Study in Forgeries and Folklore by Lang, Andrew

This is very ingenious and very true, and though not to the purpose for which I was seeking it p. 40yet will very well serve another. 

From A Sketch of the Life of the late Henry Cooper Barrister-at-Law, of the Norfolk Circuit; as also, of his Father by Cooper, William

That is true, but it is not to the purpose.

From Contemporary Socialism by Rae, John

Her excessive grief for the loss of her husband augmented her natural love of retirement which she cultivated, not to the purpose of improvement, but to the indulgence of melancholy.

From Coelebs In Search of a Wife by More, Hannah

I'll put another question to thee: if thou answerest me not to the purpose, confess thyself——13 2nd Clo.

From Hamlet by Kean, Charles John