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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.

Who’s pulling the strings, and what purpose do their machinations serve?

From Salon • May 6, 2026

But that same precedent mostly allowed lawmakers to gerrymander for the purpose of ensuring minority citizens had minority representation corresponding to their share of the population.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 6, 2026

"The whole purpose of it is to raise awareness of men's cancer," he said.

From BBC • May 6, 2026

"If the sheep are dictating safety and the wolves are not, then there's no purpose," Brockman said Musk allegedly told employees at the time.

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

Over time that difficulty can help you build strength and a sense of purpose.

From "Reaching for the Moon" by Katherine Johnson

Vocabulary lists containing purpose

The SAT: Language of the Test, List 2

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

The Language of Standardized Tests, List 1

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

PARCC: Language of the Test (Grade7)

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!