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purpose

When used as a noun meaning "the reason for something," it is most commonly followed by the preposition "of" (e.g., "the purpose of the trip"). As a noun meaning "determination," it is often used with adjectives like "sense of" or "strong" to describe a person's internal drive. Using "purpose" as a verb is much less common than using it as a noun. In most everyday conversations, people prefer to use verbs like "intend" or "design" instead.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Maya is texting Ryan while he is supposedly studying.
Maya

Quit slacking. What's the actual purpose of you being in the library?

Maya
Ryan
Ryan

The wifi is just cracked here.

💡
Maya uses 'purpose' to challenge Ryan's intent for being at the library, as she suspects he isn't studying. Ryan responds using the slang 'cracked', meaning exceptionally good or high-performing, referring to the internet speed.

Meanings

noun

The reason for which something is done or created, or for which something exists.

"The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the new budget."

noun

A person's sense of resolve or determination.

"She pursued her studies with a renewed sense of purpose."

verb (transitive)

To intend for something to be used in a particular way; to design for a specific goal.

"The funds were purposed for the construction of a new library."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error