purposeful

adjective

pur·​pose·​ful ˈpər-pəs-fəl 

1

: having a purpose: such as

a

: meaningful

purposeful activities

b

: intentional

purposeful ambiguity

2

: full of determination

was soft-spoken but purposeful

purposefully

ˈpər-pəs-fə-lē 

adverb

purposefulness noun

Synonyms

• bent (on or upon)
• bound
• decisive
• determined
• do-or-die
• firm
• hell-bent (on or upon)
• intent
• out
• resolute
• resolved
• set
• single-minded

Examples of purposeful in a Sentence

a soft-spoken but purposeful criminal investigator

there's a difference between a purposeful lie and an accidental untruth

Recent Examples on the Web

Schwartz describes being purposeful in assembling his crew. —Leila Jordan, Los Angeles Times, 23 Dec. 2024

Leaders who adopt purposeful microhabits, remain curious, and embrace AI's transformative power will not only adapt to the changing landscape but also lead it. —Mary Hemphill, Phd, Forbes, 21 Dec. 2024

His example demonstrated true leadership and purposeful service, leaving an indelible mark on countless patriots who served alongside him. —Tim Ryan, Newsweek, 17 Dec. 2024

Personalized Aesthetics Bedrooms will skew towards a more purposeful aesthetic in the new year, with designers filling bedrooms with furniture and accessories their clients have a connection to, colors with meaning, and textures that bring comfort. —Colleen Sullivan, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined at sense 1