Synonyms for purpose

noun

1. Aim

   intention, end, goal, mission, objective, object, idea, design, hope, resolve, meaning, view, scope, desire, dream, expectation, ambition, intent, destination, direction, scheme, prospect, proposal, target, aspiration; see also plan 2.

2. Resolution

   tenacity, constancy, persistence; see confidence 2, determination 2, faith 1.

purpose connotes a defined or specific resolution or determination in the plan had in mind I have a purpose in writing you; intention is the general word implying a having something in mind as a plan or design, or referring to the plan had in mind; intent, a somewhat formal term common in legal usage, connotes more deliberation assault with intent to kill; aim refers to a specific intention and connotes a directing of all efforts toward this his aim is to become a doctor; goal suggests laborious effort in striving to attain something the presidency was the goal of his ambition; end emphasizes the final result one hopes to achieve as distinct from the process of achieving it does a desirable end ever justify the use of immoral means?; object is used of an end that is the direct result of a need or desire the object of the discussion was to arouse controversy; objective refers to a specific end that is capable of being reached her immediate objective is to pass the course

on purpose

to good purpose

to little (<strong><em>or</em> </strong>no) purpose

to the purpose

verb