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cross purposes

NOUN

conflicting purposes

Synonyms

WEAK

contrary purpose crossed wires misunderstanding mutual misunderstanding

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.

Her comedy is dialectical, it rides on characters talking at cross purposes, inhabiting separate clashing realities.

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2026

For good reason: The gigs are at total cross purposes!

From Slate • Apr. 19, 2025

“Animal welfare” is sometimes misused as a synonym for “animal rights,” but in practice the two worldviews can sometimes be at cross purposes.

From New York Times • Apr. 23, 2024

The military isn’t the only institution to find itself at cross purposes with young Americans.

From Washington Times • Dec. 26, 2023

Winston had the feeling that they were talking at cross purposes.

From "1984" by George Orwell