purpose

Reading level: medium

Estimated CEFR level: A2 — Elementary

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun an anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions
  2. noun what something is used for
  3. noun the quality of being determined to do or achieve something; firmness of purpose

Etymology

From Middle English purpos, from Old French purposer (“to propose”) (with conjugation altered based on poser), from Latin prō- (“forth”) + pōnere (“place, put”), hence Latin prōpōnō, prōpōnere. By surface analysis, pur- + pose (“halt, pause, put, place”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

intent, intention, aim, design

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