want of purpose

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "want of purpose" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a lack of intention or direction in a particular context. Example: "His actions were driven by a want of purpose, leaving everyone confused about his true intentions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"At a time when Republican voters want strength of purpose and resolve in foreign policy, Mike Huckabee has resorted to the Democrat playbook of just bashing the president".

The New York Times

You want communities of purpose with clear objectives and benefits for all parties.

Forbes

We wanted for purposes of regional, and global advocacy, to be able point to what is possible, given the circumstances, in every region.

Unicef

He wants "unity of purpose"; "energy that could be harnessed through unity of purpose and values is frittered away".

Huffington Post

He wants "unity of purpose"; "energy that could be harnessed through unity of purpose and values is frittered away". Where there is one common all-overriding end there is no room for any general morals or rules.

HuffPost

If the Senate could put partisanship aside on this crucial issue and vote unanimously, why do the House Republican leadership and the president return to partisan warfare at a time when the American people want and need unity of purpose?

The New York Times

We need to continue to question what we want the purpose of education to be.

Huffington Post

Yet we also know that data scientists, like the smartest people in every field, want a sense of purpose.

Harvard Business Review

Millennials want a sense of purpose in their work.

Forbes

The Swarthmore psychology professor Barry Schwartz recently wrote an op-ed for The New York Times about why people work, citing a huge amount of research to argue that people want meaning, purpose and a sense of personal efficacy in their work as much as a big paycheck.

HuffPost

What we want is purpose and a sense of continual self-betterment, which is not served by buying another iPhone, wardrobe or a kitchen.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "want of purpose" when you specifically want to emphasize a lack of intention or direction as a driving factor behind actions or decisions.

Common error

Be careful not to use "want of purpose" when you actually mean a "need for purpose". "Want" in this context implies a lack, while "need" implies a requirement. Make sure to select the word that accurately reflects the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "want of purpose" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing the absence of a specific intention or goal. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, though examples are limited.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "want of purpose" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe the absence of intention or direction. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability, although the phrase is currently infrequent in usage. Its communicative purpose is to explain actions stemming from this lack of direction. While versatile, be careful to distinguish "want" (lack) from "need" (requirement). Consider using alternatives like "lack of direction" or "absence of intention" to better suit the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack of direction

This alternative focuses on the absence of a clear path or aim.

absence of intention

This alternative emphasizes the lack of a specific plan or goal.

lack of motivation

This alternative highlights the absence of a driving force or reason to act.

absence of drive

This alternative suggests a lack of inner energy or ambition.

lack of resolve

This alternative focuses on the absence of determination or firmness of purpose.

absence of aim

This alternative underlines the lack of a specific objective or target.

lack of ambition

This alternative emphasizes the absence of a strong desire for achievement.

absence of focus

This alternative points to the lack of concentration or clarity of mind.

lack of impetus

This alternative highlights the absence of a motivating force or stimulus.

absence of a guiding principle

This alternative suggests a lack of fundamental belief that shapes action.

FAQs

How can I use "want of purpose" in a sentence?

You can use "want of purpose" to describe the reason for someone's actions, such as "His actions were driven by a want of purpose, leaving everyone confused about his true intentions."

What is another way to say "want of purpose"?

Alternatives to "want of purpose" include "lack of direction", "absence of intention", or "lack of motivation", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "need of purpose" instead of "want of purpose"?

While both phrases relate to purpose, "want of purpose" implies a lack, while "need of purpose" suggests a requirement. The choice depends on whether you are emphasizing absence or necessity.

What does "want" mean in the phrase "want of purpose"?

In this context, "want" means a lack or absence, not a desire. It signifies that something is missing or deficient.