ENGLISH
REFERENCE

purposefully

adv. manner
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈpɝpəsfəɫi// UK //pˈɜːpəsfəli// pur·pose·ful·ly

adv. to do something in a way that shows you have a clear plan or reason. You act this way when you want to achieve a specific goal.

adv. in a way that shows determination or a clear intent. Often describes physical movement or actions performed with a specific objective in mind.


SIMPLE

She walked purposefully toward the stage to give her speech.

CONTEXTUAL

The investigator purposefully left the room to see how the suspect would react when alone.

COMPLEX

The architect purposefully designed the atrium to maximize natural light, ensuring that the building remained energy-efficient throughout the winter months.

Origin

From purposeful + -ly.

Usage

Typically follows the verb it modifies or appears at the end of the clause.

Pitfall

he did it purposelyhe did it purposefullyWhile 'purposely' means 'on purpose' (not by accident), 'purposefully' suggests doing something with a sense of mission or determination.

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