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

See Examples For:

cross-purpose

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

Already and before entering the Bering Sea, there was a full crop of suspicion and cross-purpose sowed upon the Pole Star.

From The Ice Pilot by Leverage, Henry

"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

In all their official records there is not an instance of clash between them and the President, nor even a hint of cross-purpose or loss of good understanding.

From Charles Lewis Cocke Founder of Hollins College by Smith, William Robert Lee