the reason for which something exists or is done, made, used, etc.

an intended or desired result; end; aim; goal.

determination; resoluteness.

the subject in hand; the point at issue.

practical result, effect, or advantage

to act to good purpose.

to set as an aim, intention, or goal for oneself.

to intend; design.

to resolve (to do something)

He purposed to change his way of life radically.

to have a purpose. ?

on purpose

by design; intentionally

How could you do such a thing on purpose?

to the purpose

relevant; to the point

Her objections were not to the purpose.

noun

ambition , animus , aspiration , big idea , bourn , calculation , design , desire , destination , determination , direction , dream , drift , end , expectation , function , goal , hope , idea , intendment , intent , mecca , mission , object , objective , plan , point , premeditation , principle , project , proposal , proposition , prospect , reason , resolve , scheme , scope , target , ulterior motive , view , whatfor , where one’s headed , whole idea , why and wherefore , whyfor , will , wish , confidence , constancy , faith , firmness , resolution , single-mindedness , steadfastness , tenacity , advantage , avail , benefit , duty , effect , gain , good , mark , outcome , profit , result , return , utility , job , role , task , aim , meaning , why , decidedness , decisiveness , purposefulness , resoluteness , toughness , willpower , destiny , hidden agenda , impulsion , intention , philosophy , purport , significance , teleology

verb

aim , aspire , bid for , commit , conclude , consider , contemplate , decide , design , determine , have a mind to , have in view , make up one’s mind , mean , meditate , mind , plan , ponder , propose , pursue , resolve , think to , work for , work toward , project , target , ambition , animus , aspiration , destination , determination , duty , end , function , goal , impulsion , intend , intent , intention , mission , motive , object , objective , point , proposal , purport , reason , resolution , sake , use