Incorrect spelling, explanation: both native users of English and learners tend to spell the word as pourpose instead of purpose. The form, however, is wrong even in the matter of pronunciation as -pur and -pour are pronounced differently.
Correct spelling, explanation: the word appeared in Middle English when it came from the Old French word porpos. Depending on the context, the word purpose may be either a countable or uncountable noun, but it can also serve as a verb.
Definition of purpose:
1. noun – it can refer to the reason why something happens, to the feeling of meaningfulness or to a need,
What’s the purpose of his bad mood and annoyance?
My children give me a sense of purpose.
Recently, I’ve been feeling a strong purpose to change my work.
2. verb – to intend,
She purposed to destroy my life because of jealousy.
Collocations and idioms with purpose:
Some popular collocations, idioms, and phrases include:
1. accidentally on purpose – when you pretend that you did something by accident, but you actually did it intentionally,
I accidentally on purpose broke this horribly ugly vase.
2. no purpose in something – no point in something,
I can see no purpose in talking to him as I know he won’t change his mind.
3. on purpose – with an intention to do something,
You did it on purpose! How could you?
✔ Click to open Free Grammar, Style and Spell Checker
Still not sure?
Ask your question in our comments section below (we reply to all comments within 24 hours)or return to main search.
Hello there, I recently became aware of this English dictionary through Yahoo, and realized that it’s truly informative. I’m going to watch out for spelling errors. I will be grateful if you continue building this spelling guide in future. Many people must have benefited from it. Thanks.
You made some good dictionary here.