"purpose of" vs "purpose for"

Question

"purpose of" vs "purpose for"

Both 'purpose of' and 'purpose for' are commonly used phrases in English, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Purpose of' is used to introduce the reason or intention behind something, while 'purpose for' is used to indicate the intended use or function of something.

Last Updated: March 22, 2024

Use 'purpose of' to introduce the reason or intention behind something. For example, 'The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the new project.'

Examples:

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of climate change.
What is the purpose of your visit to the museum?
The purpose of this event is to raise awareness about mental health.
She explained the purpose of the new policy to the team.
The purpose of the research is to find a cure for the disease.

Alternatives:

reason for
intention behind
aim of
goal of
objective of

Use 'purpose for' to indicate the intended use or function of something. For example, 'This tool has a specific purpose for cutting metal.'

Examples:

What is the purpose for this machine?
The purpose for this room is to serve as a storage area.
She explained the purpose for the new software to the team.
The purpose for this fund is to support local charities.
What is the purpose for using this ingredient in the recipe?

Alternatives:

intended use of
function of
role of
utility of
benefit of

Answer 1

purpose of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

purpose for

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"purpose of" vs "purpose for"

purpose of

purpose for

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