purpose — the reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈpɜːrpəs/
Example Sentences
- My cat's only purpose in life seems to be knocking things off tables.
- The purpose of education is to prepare students for their future careers.
- I bought this expensive coffee machine for the sole purpose of impressing my neighbors.
purpose
NOUN[/ˈpɜːrpəs/]
the reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists

She studies late every night with one clear purpose — getting into medical school.

PRO (forward) + POSE (place) — by actively choosing to POSE his goal PRO (forward) on the drawing board, the designer set his main purpose.

She checked the tool's smooth surface before the purchase, then used it for its intended purpose.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Old French 'purposer' (to intend, propose), derived from Latin 'proponere' meaning 'to set forth' or 'to propose'. The word combines the prefix 'pro-' (forward) with 'ponere' (to place or put).
Breakdown
pro- (forward) + -pose (from Latin ponere, to place/put) = purpose (that which is put forward or intended)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My cat's only purpose in life seems to be knocking things off tables.”
“The purpose of education is to prepare students for their future careers.”
“I bought this expensive coffee machine for the sole purpose of impressing my neighbors.”
“What is the purpose of your visit to Korea?”
📚Related Words
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