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{%type%} Definitions

WordNet 3.0Copyright Princeton University
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Short "hint"

An aim or goal unintentionally or innocently contrary to another aim or goal of oneself or someone else.

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Usage examples (37)
  • This sad collection of misfits is at cross-purposes.
  • And we seem to be, I think, at perhaps cross-purposes.
  • "They're working at cross-purposes," Mr. Donohue said.
  • Or it can work at cross-purposes to those other efforts.
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