purposely

American  

[pur-puhs-lee] / ˈpɜr pəs li /

adverb

1. intentionally; deliberately.

   He tripped me purposely.

2. with the particular purpose specified; expressly.

   I wore that suit purposely to make a good impression.

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purposely British  

/ ˈpɜːpəslɪ /

adverb

1. for a definite reason; on purpose

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Usage

What does purposely mean? Purposely is used to describe an action done intentionally, deliberately, or for a specific reason.The word purposefully means in a determined way or in a way that’s full of purpose. It should not be used to mean intentionally or deliberately.Example: I show up late to parties purposely so I’m not the first one there.

Other Word Forms

• unpurposely adverb

Etymology

Origin of purposely

First recorded in 1485–95; purpose + -ly

Compare meaning

How does purposely compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• purposely vs. purposefully

Example Sentences

The Olympics will be Chloe’s first competition this season after she purposely took on a lighter schedule knowing she already had her Olympic spot locked up last year.

From Los Angeles Times

The plaintiffs allege that the platforms are negligent and purposely designed to be harmful, echoing a strategy successfully used against the tobacco industry.

From Barron's

Browne, the pharmacist, on the other hand, said she was purposely vague about her procedure at work.

From The Wall Street Journal

Are you walking on eggshells around certain issues, or purposely avoiding topics because they feel too risky to discuss?

From BBC

Another taxi driver, who gave the name Steve, claimed firms would purposely increase the mileage on trips by dispatching drivers to another distant town to carry out short journeys.

From BBC

Related Words

• consciously
• deliberately
• explicitly
• expressly
• knowingly
• willfully