CROSS PURPOSES Meaning and
Definition
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Cross purposes refers to a situation where two or more individuals or groups have different goals or intentions, causing conflict or confusion due to their conflicting objectives. It is an idiom used to describe a state of miscommunication or a lack of coordination that occurs when the parties involved are unknowingly working against each other's aims. When people are at cross purposes, their actions or efforts inadvertently hinder or obstruct each other rather than contribute to a common objective.
This term is commonly used to describe situations in which there is a misunderstanding or clash of interests due to a lack of effective communication or collaboration. It often occurs when individuals or groups have different perspectives, motivations, or priorities and fail to recognize or acknowledge the divergent nature of their goals or actions. As a result, they unintentionally work against each other, leading to confusion, frustration, or an inability to achieve the desired outcome.
The phrase has its roots in a metaphorical sense, drawing on the visual imagery of two people traveling on separate paths that cross each other but end up going in opposite directions. This definition highlights the notion of unintentional opposition or conflict arising from divergent objectives, emphasizing the need for clarity and alignment to avoid such misunderstandings.
Common Misspellings for CROSS PURPOSES
- crowss-purposes
- cros-purposes
- crossepurposes
- cors purposes
- croos purposes
- crass purpouses
- cross porpeses
Etymology of CROSS PURPOSES
The phrase "cross purposes" originated from a combination of two separate idioms: "cross" and "purposes", each with their own etymology.
1. "Cross" comes from the Old English word "cros", which is derived from the Latin "crux". It originally referred to a wooden structure in the shape of a cross on which criminals were executed. Over time, the term expanded to encompass the Christian symbol of crucifixion. In a figurative sense, "cross" refers to a conflicting or opposing direction or purpose.
2. "Purposes" is derived from the Latin word "propositum", which means a plan, aim, or intention. It entered English through Old French and Middle English, evolving to its present form as "purpose". In this context, it refers to a particular objective, motive, or goal.
Idioms with the word CROSS PURPOSES
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at cross purposes
The idiom "at cross purposes" refers to a situation where people or groups have opposing or conflicting goals, intentions, or understandings, resulting in miscommunication, confusion, or lack of progress. It means that individuals are working in opposite directions or pursuing different objectives, often hindering collaboration or achieving a common purpose.
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be/talk at cross purposes
The idiom "be/talk at cross purposes" refers to a situation where two or more people have a conversation, but fail to understand or communicate with each other effectively because they have different intentions, goals, or perspectives. It implies that the involved parties are not on the same page and are unintentionally discussing different issues or have conflicting objectives.
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be at cross purposes
The idiom "be at cross purposes" means to misunderstand or misconstrue someone's intentions or goals, causing conflicting or opposing actions or efforts. It refers to a situation where people are working towards different objectives or have conflicting interests, resulting in a lack of cooperation or effective communication.
Similar spelling word for CROSS PURPOSES
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