firm purpose

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "firm purpose" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong and determined intention or goal. Example: "She approached her studies with a firm purpose, determined to achieve her academic goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The resolve that we bishops bring to the work before us is nourished by a firm purpose of amendment.

The New York Times

"It's an inspiration to see someone who worked so long and so hard and with such a firm purpose, for so little reward".

The Guardian

("Dutch scowled at me, fixed on his Peltor Red Domee' hearing protectors, ripped the cord on the chain saw so it started snarling... and walked with firm purpose to the snoozing object of his dislike").

The New York Times - Books

Only by truthful confession, heartfelt contrition and firm purpose of amendment can we hope to receive the generous mercy of God and the forgiveness of our brothers and sisters.

The New York Times

He set foot in Scotland with no firm purpose – he went as the companion to a young fellow painter who wanted to paint Sir Walter Scott's portrait – but fell in love with the landscape.

The Guardian - Opinion

If the Blessed Oprah is to be Armstrong's confessor, she will have to be convinced that he is sorry for what he has done, and that he has made "a firm purpose of amendment" to virtue.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

So here we are, fired up with new determination, we are full of energy and firm of purpose.

The Guardian

Two mighty mothers, fierce of tongue and firm of purpose, strode onto Broadway stages in 1959.

The New York Times

He was funny and generous, firm of purpose, and clearly loved his family.

The New York Times

The National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters Fellowship, bestowed each year since 1982, is a singular honor with firm communal purpose.

The New York Times - Arts

We will hear more of her: Ms. Lee is as commendably firm-voiced as she is firm of purpose in her ability to draw an audience toward her.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone with unwavering resolve, consider using "firm purpose" to highlight their focused intention.

Common error

Avoid using "firm purpose" when describing a general desire or aspiration; it's best suited for situations involving concrete objectives and dedicated action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "firm purpose" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "firm" modifies the noun "purpose". It describes a state of having a resolute and unwavering intention. Ludwig AI validates its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "firm purpose" is a grammatically sound phrase used to convey a strong sense of determination and commitment. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While its frequency is uncommon, it appears predominantly in News & Media and Encyclopedic contexts. When writing, use "firm purpose" to highlight focused intention, but avoid it for general desires. Consider alternatives like "determined intention" or "resolute objective" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

determined intention

Focuses more on the mental resolve behind the action.

resolute objective

Emphasizes the unwavering nature of the goal.

unwavering resolve

Highlights the steadfastness and determination.

strong conviction

Focuses on the belief and certainty driving the purpose.

clear objective

Highlights the clarity and definition of the purpose.

definite aim

Emphasizes the specific target or goal.

fixed intention

Suggests a predetermined and unchangeable plan.

strong will

Focuses on the strength of character and determination.

purposeful intent

Highlights the deliberate and intentional nature of the action.

focused dedication

Emphasizes the concentrated effort and commitment.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "firm purpose" in a sentence?

Use "firm purpose" to describe someone's strong and determined intention to achieve a specific goal. For example, "She approached the project with a "firm purpose", refusing to be deterred by challenges".

What are some alternatives to "firm purpose"?

Alternatives include "determined intention", "resolute objective", or "unwavering resolve", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What distinguishes "firm purpose" from "strong desire"?

"Firm purpose" implies a concrete objective and a committed plan of action, while "strong desire" suggests a more general yearning or aspiration. You can replace strong desire with alternative phrases such as "keen interest" or "intense want".

Is it correct to say someone has a "firm purpose of amendment"?

Yes, "firm purpose of amendment" is a valid and specific phrase, often used in a religious context to indicate a strong intention to correct one's behavior. You may also consider, depending on the nuance you want to convey, other similar and more generic options, such as "strong desire to change".