purposive

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.

Policy is also purposive, or intended to do something; that is, policymaking is not random.

From Textbooks • Jul. 28, 2021

They were grim, purposive pleas about “making a plan” that might involve multiple brown bag meals and waiting in line for hours.

From Slate • Aug. 21, 2020

Circulating through this purposive material stockpile is the only way to experience an art built entirely on double takes.

From New York Times • Jul. 16, 2020

If there is any hope for a better world, it lies in the daily effort to expand the circle of those we believe should be treated as full, purposive and dignified human beings.

From Washington Post • Aug. 1, 2019

Aristotle thought about the natural world in exactly the same way: that is to say, he saw it as the product of rational, purposive activity.

From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton