Purposive

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈpəːpÉ™sɪv/

Origin

From purpose + -ive. Compare purpositive.

Full definition of purposive

Adjective

1. Serving a particular purpose; adapted to a given purpose, especially through natural evolution. from 19th c.
2. Done or performed with a conscious purpose or intent. from 19th c.
• 2002, Colin Jones, The Great Nation, Penguin 2003, p. 191:Other ecclesiastics ... were similarly accepting of a space for purposive and beneficent human action and betterment in a disenchanted world.
3. (psychology) Pertaining to purpose, as reflected in behaviour or mental activity. from 19th c.
4. Pertaining to to or demonstrating purpose. from 19th c.
• 1971, Keith Thomas, Religion and the Decline of Magic, Folio Society 2012, p. 78:The world was generally agreed to be a purposive one, responsive to the wishes of its Creator ….
5. Possessed of a firm purpose; determined, resolute. from 20th c.
6. (grammar) Of a clause or conjunction: expressing purpose. from 20th c.

Usage notes

Objects: behavior, action, interpretation, sample, etc.

Related terms

• purposeful