The phrase "was at cross purposes" refers to a situation where two or more individuals or groups involved have conflicting or opposing goals, intentions, or understandings. It implies a lack of cooperation or coordination between them due to differing objectives or views.
When people are "at cross purposes," their actions, words, or attitudes inadvertently hinder each other's progress, contributing to misunderstandings or confusion. It often leads to a breakdown in communication or cooperation, as each party unknowingly works against the other's purpose.
This phrase can be used to describe various scenarios. For instance, in a team project, if team members have different understandings of the project's objectives or goals, they might inadvertently work against each other's efforts, causing confusion and inefficiency. Similarly, in a personal relationship, if two people have disparate expectations or aspirations, their actions or decisions may conflict, leading to misunderstandings or strained interactions.
Being "at cross purposes" highlights the importance of effective communication, collaboration, and alignment of goals. To avoid such conflicts, it is crucial for individuals or groups involved to clarify their intentions, establish common objectives, and ensure everyone is on the same page. This phrase serves as a reminder to foster understanding and cooperation among parties to achieve shared goals, preventing wastage of time, effort, and resources due to conflicting actions or interests.
