Synonyms/Hypernyms (Ordered by Estimated Frequency) of noun cross-purpose

1 sense of cross-purpose

Sense 1
cross-purpose -- (a contrary aim; "at cross-purposes")
       => purpose, intent, intention, aim, design -- (an anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions; "his intent was to provide a new translation"; "good intentions are not enough"; "it was created with the conscious aim of answering immediate needs"; "he made no secret of his designs")