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Cross-purpose   /krɔs-pˈərpəs/   Listen
noun
cross-purpose  n.  
1.
A counter or opposing purpose; a contrary aim; hence, that which is inconsistent or contradictory.
2.
pl. A conversational game, in which questions and answers are made so as to involve ludicrous combinations of ideas.
To be at cross-purposes, to misunderstand or to act counter to one another without intending it; said of persons.





Collaborative International Dictionary of English 0.48


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"Cross-purpose" Quotes from Famous Books



... dragons, are hard to kill. If the snake does not, the tale runs still In Byfield Meadows, on Pipestave Hill. And still, whenever husband and wife Publish the shame of their daily strife, And, with mad cross-purpose, tug and strain At either end of the marriage-chain, The gossips say, with a knowing shake Of their gray heads, "Look at the Double Snake One in body and two in will, ...
— The Complete Works of Whittier - The Standard Library Edition with a linked Index • John Greenleaf Whittier


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