Speakur

Word Pronunciation & Dictionary

cross-purpose

Word Rarity Uncommon

Frequency: 4.63 in modern English

Syllables
cross-pur-pose
IPA
18
Scrabble Score
12
Letters
3
Syllables
7
Unique Chars

Meaning

noun

A contrary or conflicting purpose or understanding, especially an unintentional or misconceived one.

Example Sentences

Etymology

Attested (in the plural form) since the 1660s, originally meaning ‘contradictory intentions.’

Inflected Forms

cross-purposes (plural) cross purpose (alternative)

Phrases

cross-purposes at cross-purposes

Questions

What does cross-purpose mean?
A contrary or conflicting purpose or understanding, especially an unintentional or misconceived one.
Where does cross-purpose come from?
Attested (in the plural form) since the 1660s, originally meaning ‘contradictory intentions.’

How to pronounce cross-purpose

  1. Open the pronunciation page — Open the Speakur entry for “cross-purpose”.
  2. Read the phonetic spelling — Read the IPA spelling () so you know which sounds to aim for.
  3. Play the audio — Click Play to hear reference audio for “cross-purpose”.
  4. Repeat and practice — Say “cross-purpose” aloud, matching stress and vowels until it feels natural.