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Definition of purposive - 2 dictionary results

pur⋅pos⋅ive

  [pur-puh-siv]
Use purposive in a Sentence
–adjective
1. having, showing, or acting with a purpose, intention, or design.
2. adapted to a purpose or end.
3. serving some purpose.
4. determined; resolute.
5. of or characteristic of purpose.
Origin:
1850–55; purpose + -ive

Related forms:
pur⋅pos⋅ive⋅ly, adverb
pur⋅pos⋅ive⋅ness, noun
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To purposive
pur·po·sive   (pûr'pə-sĭv)   
adj.  

  1. Having or serving a purpose.

  2. Purposeful: purposive behavior.

pur'po·sive·ly adv., pur'po·sive·ness n.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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