adv. phr. With opposing meanings or aims; with opposing effect or result; with aims which hinder or get in each other's way. Tom's parents acted at cross purposes in advising him; his father wanted him to become a doctor; but his mother wanted him to become a minister.
AT CROSS PURPOSES
Meaning of AT CROSS PURPOSES in English
American idioms English vocabulary. Английский словарь американских идиом. 2012