Word
multipurpose
Phoneticsmul·ti·pur·pose, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌməɫtiˈpɝpəs/
UK/mˌʌltɪpˈɜːpəs/
Definition
adj. describing something that can be used for many different purposes. You use this to talk about tools or rooms that have more than one job.
adj. capable of serving several different functions or purposes. Often used to describe objects, spaces, or software designed for versatility.
Examples
“The kitchen table is a multipurpose piece of furniture.”
“The new software is a multipurpose tool that can handle everything from basic accounting to complex data analysis.”
“Architects often design multipurpose spaces in urban centers to maximize efficiency, allowing a single room to serve as a living area, a home office, and a guest bedroom depending on the time of day.”
Examples
simple
“The kitchen table is a multipurpose piece of furniture.”
contextual
“The new software is a multipurpose tool that can handle everything from basic accounting to complex data analysis.”
complex
“Architects often design multipurpose spaces in urban centers to maximize efficiency, allowing a single room to serve as a living area, a home office, and a guest bedroom depending on the time of day.”
Real-World Examples
“Narumon Bowonkitwanchai/Moment via Getty Images The first type is widely known and broadly available: the multipurpose AI platforms like ChatGPT and Claude.” “It was mostly fine, he replied (from his bedroom), although the colourful multipurpose pan I was influenced into buying in a moment of emotional weakness proved underwhelming.” Word family
VERB
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/multipurpose