CROSS PURPOSE Meaning and
Definition
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Cross purpose refers to two or more individuals or groups working towards conflicting or opposing objectives or goals. It implies a situation where the actions or intentions of one party hinder or contradict the actions or intentions of another party. The term "cross purpose" can also describe a situation where multiple individuals or entities unknowingly work against each other due to miscommunication, misunderstanding, or different interpretations of a shared objective.
In such scenarios, cross purposes can lead to inefficiency, confusion, and ultimately, a lack of progress towards a common objective. It often occurs when there is a breakdown in communication between parties, resulting in conflicting actions, decisions, or strategies.
This term is commonly used to describe interpersonal or organizational conflicts, where different parties may have divergent priorities, interests, or motivations. It can arise in various contexts, such as workplaces, partnerships, negotiations, or even within families or social settings.
Resolving cross purposes typically requires effective communication, negotiation, and compromise, in order to align the conflicting parties towards a shared goal. Identifying the source of conflict, clarifying expectations, and fostering open dialogue are crucial steps towards resolving misunderstandings and achieving harmony between the involved parties.
Overall, cross purpose refers to a situation in which individuals or groups unintentionally or intentionally work against each other, leading to divergence rather than cooperation towards a common objective.
Etymology of CROSS PURPOSE
The etymology of the phrase "cross purpose" can be traced back to the Middle English language. The word "cross" in this context refers to an intersection or intertwining of two or more paths, while "purpose" refers to one's intention or objective.
In Old English, the word "cruce" or "cruc" meant "cross" or "crucifix", which evolved into the Middle English term "crosse". Over time, "crosse" began to be used metaphorically to describe a conflicting or opposing path or direction.
On the other hand, "purpose" comes from the Old French word "purpos" or "porpos", meaning "intention" or "aim". It entered Middle English through Anglo-Norman and eventually became associated with one's goal or objective.
Idioms with the word CROSS PURPOSE
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cross purpose
When people are working at cross purposes, they have conflicting goals or intentions that do not align with each other. This can lead to misunderstandings, disagreements, or obstacles in achieving a common objective.
