cross-purpose

[ kraws-pur-puhs, kros- ]

noun

1. an opposing or contrary purpose.

cross-purpose

noun

1. a contrary aim or purpose
2. at cross-purposes
   conflicting; opposed; disagreeing

Word History and Origins

Origin of cross-purpose¹

First recorded in 1660–70

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

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

Example Sentences

It seems someway unlike God to make each person a something all of cross-purpose.

From Project Gutenberg

I am not prone on my green couch, frayed, frazzled, bowed-down in spirit from a day of frightful stress and cross-purpose.

From Project Gutenberg

I do not excuse Sunna, but I say that wherever there is a cross purpose, there has likely never been a straight one.

From Project Gutenberg

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

From Project Gutenberg