right purpose

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "right purpose" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the intention or goal behind an action or decision, emphasizing that it is appropriate or justifiable. Example: "To achieve success, one must always act with the right purpose in mind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

It may be the right purpose, but he's the wrong person.

The New York Times

Lastly, can anyone argue that cloning for the right purpose is objectionable?

The New York Times

"But we recognize the rule doesn't necessarily serve the right purpose.

The New York Times - Sports

Choosing the right purpose is difficult (much harder than providing the technology).

Harvard Business Review

It will be important to have the right story to tell, the right purpose and the right aura.

The New York Times

Anthony F. Felicio, president of the Brentwood school board, said: "The sale is fine, but the purpose has to be the right purpose.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

The Philharmonic's virtuosity, so abused in previous eras, was used here for the right purposes.

The New York Times - Arts

"Understanding [the] dynamics [of entrepreneurship] and how to harness them and put them to work for the right purposes is really important for young people," he says.

Columbia University

He said: "It makes sense to take a look at whether military-style equipment is being acquired for the right purposes and whether there is proper training on when and how to deploy it".

Independent

I don't know if that exists in all the other states that use their intelligence capability or military capability in that fashion… they certainly are incredible capabilities but they need to be used for the right purposes".

The Guardian - Tech

Esmail had no objection to this, as long as it was being used for the right purposes: "If it's being used to single me out then that's quite unfair.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "right purpose", ensure the context clearly establishes what makes the purpose "right"—is it ethical, effective, or aligned with specific goals? Providing clarity enhances the phrase's impact.

Common error

Avoid using "right purpose" without specifying the criteria that define 'right'. Ensure the reader understands the basis for deeming the purpose as correct or appropriate within the given context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "right purpose" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "right" modifies the noun "purpose". Ludwig AI suggests that it is a grammatically sound construction.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

20%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "right purpose" is a commonly used noun phrase signifying that an action or intention aligns with ethical, moral, or strategic considerations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. While generally neutral in register, its meaning can be subjective and context-dependent, requiring clear definition of what constitutes "right" in a particular situation. It's frequently used in news and media, academic writing, and scientific discourse, and can be effectively replaced with synonyms like "correct intention" or "proper aim" depending on the nuance desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

correct intention

Focuses on the alignment of the intention with ethical or moral standards, implying a judgment of correctness.

proper aim

Emphasizes the appropriateness of the goal or target, suggesting it is well-suited to the situation.

fitting objective

Highlights the suitability of the objective, indicating it's well-matched to the needs or circumstances.

appropriate goal

Stresses the suitability of the goal, conveying that it is fitting and acceptable.

suitable reason

Centers on the validity and justification for an action, suggesting it is logical and reasonable.

valid motive

Highlights the legitimacy of the underlying motivation, indicating it is justifiable and not suspect.

justifiable cause

Emphasizes the moral or ethical defensibility of the reason or action, suggesting it is right and fair.

legitimate reason

Focuses on the lawfulness and permissibility of the reason, implying compliance with rules and regulations.

ethical motive

Highlights the moral principles guiding the action, suggesting adherence to ethical standards.

principled intention

Emphasizes adherence to moral principles in the intention, implying strong ethical considerations.

FAQs

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

You can use "right purpose" to describe an action or intention that is morally sound, effective, or aligned with a specific goal. For example, "They used their influence for the "right purpose" of helping the community".

What are some alternatives to "right purpose"?

Alternatives to "right purpose" include "correct intention", "proper aim", or "appropriate goal". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always clear what constitutes the "right purpose"?

No, the definition of "right" can be subjective and depend on context, ethical considerations, and personal values. It's often important to clarify what makes a purpose "right" in a given situation.

What is the difference between "right purpose" and "good intention"?

"Right purpose" often implies effectiveness and alignment with a specific goal, whereas "good intention" focuses more on the moral or ethical motivations behind an action. The phrase "right purpose" includes a component of rightness (moral, ethical, or strategic).