to the purpose — relevant to what is being discussed; appropriate or useful for the matter at hand
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: relevant to what is being discussed; appropriate or useful for the matter at hand
Pronunciation (IPA): /tuː ðə ˈpɜːrpəs/
Example Sentences
- The boss said my presentation was completely to the purpose - finally!
- Her advice about time management was very much to the purpose.
- Stop talking about your cat - let's keep our discussion to the purpose!
to the purpose
ADVERB[/tuː ðə ˈpɜːrpəs/]
relevant to what is being discussed; appropriate or useful for the matter at hand
a businesswoman points to specific charts and data that directly address the meeting's main topic. She highlights key statistics that solve the exact problem being discussed. The audience members nod approvingly and lean forward with interest as her information matches their needs perfectly. Before her presentation, people looked confused, but now they appear satisfied and engaged. information that is relevant to what is being discussed and appropriate for the matter at hand
Clear the surplus, stay to the purpose!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The phrase derives from Old French 'porpos' (14th century), meaning 'intention' or 'purpose'. The expression 'to the purpose' developed to mean 'in accordance with the purpose' or 'to the point', functioning as an adverbial phrase indicating relevance or aptness.
Breakdown
to (preposition indicating direction/relation) + the (definite article) + purpose (from Old French porpos, meaning intention or objective).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The boss said my presentation was completely to the purpose - finally!”
“Her advice about time management was very much to the purpose.”
“Stop talking about your cat - let's keep our discussion to the purpose!”
“The senator's questions were sharp and to the purpose.”
📚Related Words
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