CROSSPURPOSES Meaning and
Definition
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Crosspurposes is a noun referring to a situation where individuals or groups work against each other, often unintentionally, due to a misunderstanding, conflicting interests, or differing goals. It involves a lack of coordination or cooperation that leads to conflicting actions or outcomes. When people are on crosspurposes, they inadvertently hinder the progress, success, or achievement of a common objective.
The term crosspurposes can be used to describe scenarios in various contexts, such as personal relationships, businesses, organizations, or even society as a whole. It encapsulates the idea of individuals or factions unintentionally impeding one another's efforts or working in opposition to each other, despite having a shared purpose or goal.
Crosspurposes may arise when communication breaks down, leading to misinterpretations or conflicting interpretations of information or instructions. It can also occur when different parties have conflicting agendas, priorities, or ways of approaching a task or problem.
Resolving crosspurposes often requires open and effective communication, a clear understanding of the common objective, and a willingness to collaborate and find common ground. It may involve identifying and addressing the factors that contribute to misunderstandings or conflicts, and finding ways to align the actions and efforts of all parties involved.
In summary, crosspurposes refers to a situation where individuals or groups unintentionally work against each other due to a lack of coordination, conflicting interests, or differing goals, hindering the achievement of a shared objective.
Common Misspellings for CROSSPURPOSES
- crospurpose
- xrosspurposes
- vrosspurposes
- frosspurposes
- drosspurposes
- ceosspurposes
- cdosspurposes
- cfosspurposes
- ctosspurposes
- c5osspurposes
- c4osspurposes
- crisspurposes
- crksspurposes
- crlsspurposes
- crpsspurposes
- cr0sspurposes
- cr9sspurposes
- croaspurposes
- crozspurposes
- croxspurposes
Etymology of CROSSPURPOSES
The word "crosspurposes" is a compound word that combines "cross" and "purposes". The etymology of "cross" can be traced back to the Old English word "cros", which came from the Latin "crux". "Cross" refers to the shape of the Christian symbol, often associated with Jesus Christ's crucifixion. It later developed metaphorical meanings related to conflicts, frustrations, or opposition.
The word "purposes" comes from the Old English word "purpos", meaning an intention or an aim, which itself was derived from the Latin word "propositum", meaning a proposal or plan.
When combined, "crosspurposes" refers to situations or actions that are in conflict or opposition to one another, often resulting in confusion or lack of synchronization.
Idioms with the word CROSSPURPOSES
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at crosspurposes
The idiom "at cross purposes" refers to a situation where two or more people or groups have different goals or intentions, resulting in a misunderstanding or conflict due to their conflicting ideas, actions, or communication. Essentially, it implies that the parties involved are working towards different objectives or are not on the same page, leading to confusion or a lack of coordination.
