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Purposefully vs Purposely
Difference, Examples & Quiz

What's the difference? Which one is correct?

Purposefully

Definition: Intentionally or deliberately

Usage: This adverb is used to describe an action that is done with a specific purpose or intention.

Example sentences:
  • 1. She purposefully ignored his comments.
  • 2. He walked purposefully towards the exit.
  • 3. The artist purposefully chose vibrant colors for the painting.
Purposely

Definition: Deliberately or intentionally

Usage: This adverb is used to describe an action that is done with a clear intention or objective.

Example sentences:
  • 1. He purposely avoided mentioning her name.
  • 2. She purposely arrived late to the meeting.
  • 3. The company purposely kept the information confidential.

The words 'purposefully' and 'purposely' are often used interchangeably, but they have subtle differences in meaning. 'Purposefully' means intentionally or deliberately, while 'purposely' means with a specific purpose or intent. Both words convey the idea of doing something with a clear goal in mind, but 'purposefully' emphasizes the deliberate nature of the action, while 'purposely' emphasizes the specific aim or objective of the action.

Quizzes about "Purposefully" vs "Purposely"

Purposefully vs Purposely: 5 Quizzes

1. What is the meaning of the word 'Purposefully'?

2. What is the meaning of the word 'Purposely'?

3. Which word means 'with intention'?

4. Which word means 'with a specific purpose'?

5. What is the synonym of 'Intentionally'?

FAQs

  • What is the difference between 'purposefully' and 'purposely'?

    The word 'purposefully' means to do something intentionally or with a clear purpose. On the other hand, 'purposely' means to do something with a specific purpose or intention.

  • Can 'purposefully' and 'purposely' be used interchangeably?

    No, 'purposefully' and 'purposely' have different meanings and cannot be used interchangeably. 'Purposefully' implies acting intentionally, while 'purposely' implies acting with a specific purpose or intention.

  • How can I remember the difference between 'purposefully' and 'purposely'?

    A helpful way to remember the difference is to associate 'purposefully' with the word 'purpose' and think of it as acting with a clear purpose. 'Purposely' can be associated with the word 'purposeful' and implies acting with a specific purpose or intention.

  • Are 'purposefully' and 'purposely' adverbs or adjectives?

    'Purposefully' and 'purposely' are both adverbs. They modify verbs and describe how an action is performed.

  • Can you provide examples of sentences using 'purposefully' and 'purposely'?

    Certainly! Here are some examples: 1. She purposefully ignored his comments. 2. He purposely arrived late to the meeting. 3. They purposefully designed the product to be user-friendly. 4. The suspect purposely misled the investigators. 5. The teacher purposefully chose the book for its educational value.