multi-purpose vs universal

Both 'multi-purpose' and 'universal' are correct phrases, but they have slightly different meanings and usage. 'Multi-purpose' refers to something that can be used for many different purposes, while 'universal' means something that applies to all cases or situations. The choice between the two depends on the specific context and the intended meaning.

Last updated: March 31, 2024 • 1263 views

The term 'multi-purpose' is correct and commonly used in English to describe something that can be used for many different purposes.

"multi-purpose"

Use 'multi-purpose' to describe an object, tool, or product that is designed to serve multiple functions or purposes.

Examples:

This multi-purpose tool can be used for cooking, gardening, and DIY projects.
I love this multi-purpose cleaner that works on multiple surfaces.
The multi-purpose room in our house serves as a guest bedroom, home office, and play area for the kids.
She bought a multi-purpose backpack that can be used for hiking, traveling, and everyday use.
The multi-purpose venue hosts concerts, conferences, and exhibitions.

Show examples from the web [+]

You're multi-purpose for a Holocaust flick.
Against this background, any prior transfer of multi-purpose vouchers should not be subject to VAT.
Now used as a multi-purpose space for events of various nature.
In the absence of any direct EU competence in the field of sport, there are no specific Community measures or programmes to fund a multi-purpose centre for football and light athletics.
This complement to extensive pastoral activity will promote biodiversity and the multi-purpose use of natural areas without increasing the farm's production capacity
In Japan, it is already possible to use this kind of system for purchases, which are paid for using another chip contained in the mobile phone (which is actually a multi-purpose terminal).
Apart from offering the advantage of independence of on-line data communications, with their attendant costs, this microcomputer also allows for multi-purpose applications.
A multi-purpose board game GUI for Go, Amazons and Reversi
In 1994 the EMI Council recommended that only credit institutions (according to national law) should be allowed to issue multi-purpose prepaid cards.
For multi-purpose vouchers, it is necessary to clarify that VAT should be charged when the goods or services to which the voucher relates are supplied.
Prepaid cards The multi-purpose prepaid card (or electronic purse) is a plastic card which contains effective purchasing power for which the customer has paid in advance.
9. The purchasing power loaded in a multi-purpose prepaid card represents, for the issuer, a source of funds equivalent in their economic effect to deposit-taking.
'multi-purpose voucher' means a voucher, other than a single-purpose voucher.
The obtained product (i.e. consumer rolls which is not product concerned) is used in multi-purpose short-life wrapping, mostly in households, catering, food and floristry retail business.
If this were the principal element of the agreement, it would benefit the type of fleet which is multi-purpose and larger-sized which, in any event, is already looking for other fishing grounds.
In Québec, according to the regulations, a multi-purpose list can be used only in the context of a procedure to qualify a supplier (Article 19.8.7).
This Directive does not target the situations where a multi-purpose voucher is not redeemed by the final consumer during its validity period, and the consideration received for such voucher is kept by the seller.
In the absence of such information the taxable amount should be equal to the monetary value indicated on the multi-purpose voucher itself or in the related documentation, less the amount of VAT relating to the goods or services supplied.
Subject: Possible funding for the construction of a multi-purpose indoor sports centre in the municipality of Colleferro, in the Province of Rome
Where a multi-purpose voucher is used partially in respect of the supply of goods or services, the taxable amount should be equal to the corresponding part of the consideration or the monetary value, less the amount of VAT relating to the goods or services supplied.

Alternatives:

versatile
all-in-one
multi-functional
adaptable
flexible

The term 'universal' is also correct and commonly used in English to describe something that applies to all cases or situations.

"universal"

Use 'universal' to describe principles, laws, truths, or concepts that are applicable or common to all cases or situations.

Examples:

The concept of human rights is considered universal.
Mathematical principles are often seen as universal truths.
The company aims to create a universal solution that works for all customers.
Love is often described as a universal language that transcends cultural barriers.
The idea of equality is a universal value that should be upheld.

Show examples from the web [+]

The adventures of your heroes are universal narrative types.
So there was something universal about the DNA molecule.
The TNA400 is the all-rounder in universal turning.
This clock gives GD universal ownership of time.
Suppose there is a universal mind controlling everything.
There are universal biological standards of beauty and attraction.
My goal is social progress, universal prosperity.
Another universal sign coming at you.
You cannot hope to overpower my universal weapon.
Chydenius was outspoken about universal rights and the abolition of privilege.
Mathematics is the universal language among intelligent creatures.
There's no universal signal for gratitude.
7 Observers separate the universal wavefunction into orthogonal sets of experiences.
Finland offers its residents universal healthcare.
Peace-education and universal citizenship processes 2.
12 Worldwide certifications for universal Installation kit necessary.
Easy to operate, unique design, universal possibilities.
Many works are about universal truth with earthy metaphors.
Romans 8 is also contrary to universal atonement.
Copriseggiolone universal foam that adapts easily to highchairs for feeding.

Alternatives:

all-encompassing
all-embracing
global
comprehensive
inclusive

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