PURPOSE


Meaning of PURPOSE in English

/perr"peuhs/ , n. , v. , purposed, purposing .

n.

1. the reason for which something exists or is done, made, used, etc.

2. an intended or desired result; end; aim; goal.

3. determination; resoluteness.

4. the subject in hand; the point at issue.

5. practical result, effect, or advantage: to act to good purpose.

6. on purpose , by design; intentionally: How could you do such a thing on purpose?

7. to the purpose , relevant; to the point: Her objections were not to the purpose.

v.t.

8. to set as an aim, intention, or goal for oneself.

9. to intend; design.

10. to resolve (to do something): He purposed to change his way of life radically.

v.i.

11. to have a purpose.

[ 1250-1300; (n.) ME purpos purposer, var. of proposer to PROPOSE; (v.) ME purposen purposer ]

Syn. 1. object, point, rationale. See intention. 9. mean, contemplate, plan.

Random House Webster's Unabridged English dictionary.      Полный английский словарь Вебстер - Random House .