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.
Without such communication, the court reasoned, such independent spending could be at cross-purposes with the candidate.
From Slate • Jan. 28, 2026
“Hitchcock & Herrmann” is a painstakingly detailed history of two geniuses working first together and then at cross-purposes.
From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 31, 2025
Carroll, however, will tell you that he’s also been misconstrued, and that establishing the run is not at cross-purposes with an explosive attack.
From Seattle Times • Sep. 9, 2023
It appears that the loud classical music is working at cross-purposes here, says Hirsch.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2023
Wintergreen was a snide little punk who enjoyed working at cross-purposes.
From "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller
