Definition

Not having a specific purpose or intention; lacking a goal or aim.

Example

The artist's nonpurposive style allows for spontaneous creativity without a defined outcome.

Conversation

I was reading about different types of actions the other day.

Oh really? What did you find out?

I learned that some actions are nonpurposive and just happen without any intention.

That's interesting! I guess not everything we do has a specific goal.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonpurposive → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "purposive" (from Latin "purposus", meaning having a purpose). The word "nonpurposive" means not having a specific purpose or intention.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') having a 'purpose' ('purposive') — that's why nonpurposive means lacking a specific intention.

Visually Confused Words