Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
establish the purpose
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase 'establish the purpose' is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used when introducing an explanation of why something is being done or a description of the goal of an activity. For example, "Before beginning the project, we must establish the purpose of our efforts."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Wiki
News & Media
Alternative expressions(20)
define the objective
determine the rationale
clarify the goal
ascertain the intention
set the aim
identify the function
establish the usefulness
establish the intent
establish the intention
establish the motivation
establish the rationale
establish the implementation
establish the order
implement the purpose
establish the significance
assess the purpose
establish the subject
establish the mission
establish the objective
achieve the purpose
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
6 human-written examples
The bank, which was headed by Bob Diamond in 2011 and 2012, did not establish the "purpose or nature" of the deal and "did not sufficiently corroborate" the clients' stated source of wealth and funds.
News & Media
Establish the purpose of the action research.
The first is to establish the purpose of the method and agree upon outcomes, target values or acceptance limits, whereas the second is to characterise the performance of the assay by experimentation.
Science
Establish the purpose of your garden path or paths.
Wiki
Research the company you are interviewing with and establish the purpose of your interview.
Wiki
Establish the purpose of the camera before you start shopping for a non-disposable camera.
Wiki
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
54 human-written examples
The introduction of performance indicators into a process such as research may, however, have a dysfunctional impact unless great care is taken to establish the purposes and likely consequences of assessments [ 13, 18].
The original series re-established the purpose of public service broadcasting.
News & Media
The church not only established the purpose of literature but preserved it.
Encyclopedias
Establishing the purpose of the examination.
Science
The scene establishes the purpose and is the context in relation to which different forms of agency are created.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When writing a report or proposal, begin by clearly stating "establish the purpose" in the introduction to guide the reader's understanding.
Common error
Avoid detailing how something will be done before you "establish the purpose" why it's being done. Starting with the 'how' can confuse your audience.
Source & Trust
77%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "establish the purpose" functions as an action-oriented expression, typically used to define or clarify the reason or intent behind a specific task, project, or endeavor. Examples on Ludwig show its use in various contexts, aligning with Ludwig AI's assessment.
Frequent in
Science
33%
Wiki
33%
News & Media
17%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
17%
Formal & Business
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "establish the purpose" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It's used to clearly define the reason or intention behind a specific action, project, or endeavor. Although only used uncommonly, its primary function is to inform and direct, setting a clear understanding of why something is being done. The register is generally professional, and it appears most frequently in scientific, wiki, and news & media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure you are focusing on the why before detailing the how to avoid confusing your audience.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
define the objective
Focuses on specifying a measurable goal, slightly more specific than a general purpose.
determine the rationale
Emphasizes the reasoning or justification behind something, adding a layer of explanation.
ascertain the intention
Highlights discovering the underlying plan or aim, implying a process of finding out.
clarify the goal
Stresses making the desired outcome clear and understandable, focusing on simplicity.
set the aim
Concentrates on fixing or deciding upon a specific target, suggesting a decision-making process.
identify the function
Zeroes in on recognizing what something is used for or its role, more focused on utility.
specify the intent
Involves clearly stating the planned course of action, highlighting precision.
establish the usefulness
Shifts focus to proving the value or benefit of something, emphasizing practical application.
define the mission
Implies a broader scope, referring to an important assignment or calling.
articulate the vision
Focuses on expressing a long-term, aspirational view, adding a forward-looking perspective.
FAQs
How can I rephrase "establish the purpose" in a sentence?
You can use alternatives like "define the objective", "determine the rationale", or "clarify the goal" depending on the context.
When is it appropriate to use the phrase "establish the purpose"?
It's appropriate when you need to clearly define the reason or intention behind an action, project, or object. It's often used in formal settings like academic papers, business proposals, or legal documents.
What is the difference between "establish the purpose" and "achieve the purpose"?
"Establish the purpose" refers to the act of defining or setting the reason for something, while "achieve the purpose" refers to successfully fulfilling that reason or goal.
Is there a more formal way to say "establish the purpose"?
Yes, a more formal way to express this could be to "define the objective" or "ascertain the intention". These alternatives lend a more professional tone, particularly useful in official documentation.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
77%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested