at cross-purposes
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“It is very dangerous when two parts of our government are working at cross-purposes, and it’s got to change,” he said.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026
But instead Andrew remained part of the Royal Family, appearing at national events, at cross-purposes to the worthier efforts of his elder brother.
From BBC • Feb. 20, 2026
Without such communication, the court reasoned, such independent spending could be at cross-purposes with the candidate.
From Slate • Jan. 28, 2026
Rather, he says, there are “huge responsibilities, particularly when you’re dealing with the traumatized,” that are at cross-purposes with the conventions of narrative TV.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2025
His face is unshaven; his arms lie on his legs at cross-purposes.
From "It’s Kind of a Funny Story" by Ned Vizzini
