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Definitions

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.

Koch has already said she will miss the "teamwork and camaraderie" and the "common sense of purpose on the mission".

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

This is not a critique; it’s simply a recognition: that the food of that time was built for a different purpose.

From Salon • Apr. 10, 2026

The OECD’s primary purpose is to provide policy advice to its member governments.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

"While the U.S. and China each have multiple satellites that observe nighttime light, there is currently no European satellite designed for this purpose," says Kyba.

From Science Daily • Apr. 9, 2026

Duane let go of the toboggan because there really was no purpose in them staying together at this point.

From "The Very, Very Far North" by Dan Bar-el

Vocabulary lists containing purpose

The SAT: Language of the Test, List 2

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PARCC: Language of the Test (Grade7)

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The Language of Standardized Tests, List 1

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!