by purpose

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by purpose" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a certain action was taken intentionally, with a specific goal in mind. For example, "He moved to the other side of the room by purpose, hoping to avoid a confrontation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

"But we can't let it replace the domestic agenda whether it is by purpose or design.

The New York Times

And the way they fit together is generally not something people would design by purpose".

The New York Times - Magazine

A new division of a major public relations agency is being driven by purpose.

The New York Times

Should they have taken a risk on a millennial consumer motivated by purpose to drive profit for years to come?

The Guardian

THIS sort of authority works in World War II movies, as it worked in America itself at the time, because it was informed by purpose.

The New York Times

Second, the layout is generally determined by brand rather than by purpose and with no real organization by size or color -- or by anything.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

The Bourgogne was eventually followed by purpose-built public theatres across Europe.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Literary works are now routinely accompanied by purpose-made soundtracks; bands are calling upon literary writers to supply lyrics.

The New York Times - Magazine

However, when asked which types of housing are most suited to the needs of Londoners, terraced dwellings came top, closely followed by purpose-built flats of five storeys or less.

The Guardian

While in days gone by purpose-built student accommodation would simply have been on-campus halls provided by the university, now it is now more often found in blocks bought by private developers and owned by shareholders.

The Guardian

Demographic and reproductive data were directly surveyed by purpose-trained staff at the date of screening.

Breast Cancer Research and Treatment

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by purpose" to clearly indicate that an action or design was intentional and not accidental. This can strengthen your argument or explanation.

Common error

Do not use "by purpose" when "with a purpose" is more appropriate. "By purpose" often describes how something is done, while "with a purpose" describes why.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by purpose" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to specify that an action is performed intentionally. Ludwig AI indicates that it's grammatically correct and can be used to indicate intentionality.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by purpose" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that functions as an adverbial, serving to emphasize the intentional nature of an action or design. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. It finds application across diverse fields, including News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. When using "by purpose", ensure that it clearly communicates the deliberate nature of the action and consider related alternatives such as "on purpose" or "intentionally" to best suit the nuance of your writing. Avoid using it when "with a purpose" would be more appropriate to describe the reason behind an action rather than the manner in which it was performed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

On purpose

This is a very similar phrase to "by purpose" but carries a slightly stronger connotation of deliberate action.

Purposely

A direct synonym emphasizing a clear and intended objective.

With intent

Emphasizes the mental state behind the action, focusing on the planned outcome.

Intentionally

This single-word adverb directly implies that something is done with a specific aim or plan.

Deliberately

Indicates a careful and intentional action, often highlighting a conscious decision.

With a specific aim

Expands the phrase to explicitly state the presence of a defined objective.

With a goal in mind

Highlights the forward-thinking aspect of having a pre-determined target.

For a reason

Highlights the existence of a specific cause or justification for an action.

Specifically

This term stresses the precise and defined nature of the goal or intention.

Designedly

Focuses on the planning and creation of something with a particular aim in mind.

FAQs

How can I use "by purpose" in a sentence?

You can use "by purpose" to indicate that something was done intentionally or with a specific aim. For example, "The tool was designed by purpose to improve efficiency."

What's a good alternative to "by purpose"?

Alternatives to "by purpose" include "on purpose", "intentionally", or "deliberately", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "by purpose" and "with a purpose"?

"By purpose" describes how something is done (intentionally), while "with a purpose" describes why something is done (having a specific reason or goal). They aren't always interchangeable.

When is it best to use "by purpose" over other similar phrases?

Use "by purpose" when you want to emphasize the intentionality behind an action or design, especially when clarifying that it wasn't accidental or coincidental. Consider the other alternatives such as "with intent" or "purposely" if they fit the context better.