cross-purpose

American  

[kraws-pur-puhs, kros-] / ˈkrɔsˈpɜr pəs, ˈkrɒs- /

noun

1. an opposing or contrary purpose.

---

idioms

1. at cross-purposes, in a way that involves or produces mutual misunderstanding or frustration, usually unintentionally.

cross-purpose British  

noun

1. a contrary aim or purpose

2. conflicting; opposed; disagreeing

---

Etymology

Origin of cross-purpose

First recorded in 1660–70

Example Sentences

If it wants to build a cross-platform, cross-purpose platform for audio and video calls, it has to get a lot of little things right.

From The Verge • Jun. 1, 2022

They interrupt, contradict, mimic, mock, carry on cross-purpose conversation.

From Time Magazine Archive

"If we find every fact of life at cross-purpose with Scripture, what then?"

From The Call of the Town A Tale of Literary Life by Hammerton, John Alexander, Sir

There is no confusion or cross-purpose in the hive.

From The Breath of Life by Burroughs, John

The apparent cross-purpose of the despatches is explained by the difficulty of communication between headquarters and the Sixth Corps.

From The Campaign of Chancellorsville by Dodge, Theodore Ayrault