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.
That makes “build-to-rent” development a bad investment, which means it won’t happen, which means fewer homes will be built, which is at cross-purposes with the point of the bill.
From Slate • Mar. 14, 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
“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
His face is unshaven; his arms lie on his legs at cross-purposes.
From "It’s Kind of a Funny Story" by Ned Vizzini
