cross-purpose

American  

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

noun

1. an opposing or contrary purpose.

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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

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Etymology

Origin of cross-purpose

First recorded in 1660–70

Example Sentences

Before men can transact any affair, they must have a common language to speak, and some common, recognized principles on which they can argue; otherwise all is cross purpose and confusion.

From The Works of the Right Honourable Edmund Burke, Vol. 05 (of 12) by Burke, Edmund

Both were playing at cross purpose, and it was not until the Hotel Commissionaire, the deus ex machina, so to speak, appeared upon the scene and interposed, that the matter at issue was satisfactorily adjusted.

From A Cabinet Secret by Boothby, Guy Newell

The whole day indeed had worked itself away to cross purpose, and John came home weary with the aching brows that annoyance and worry touch with a peculiar depressing neuralgia.

From The Measure of a Man by Merrill, Frank T. (Frank Thayer)

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

From An Orkney Maid by Barr, Amelia Edith Huddleston

He realised the futility of a many-headed direction of the war: with his swift insight he saw the tragic toll that all this cross purpose was taking.

From The War After the War by Marcosson, Isaac Frederick