1
State an aim
Explain what an action is intended to achieve.
Example
Samples were collected for the purpose of comparison.
for the purpose of
/fər ðə ˈpɜːpəs əv/ · fur thuh PUR-puhs uvpurpose phrase
With the specific aim or intention of doing something.
Use for the purpose of to signal this exact relationship between ideas: with the specific aim or intention of doing something.
What for the purpose of Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Define authorised use
Limit an activity to a stated objective.
Example
The records may be copied for the purpose of research.
3
Explain a procedure
Identify why a method or step was chosen.
Example
The categories were merged for the purpose of statistical analysis.
Use for the purpose of Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
Samples were collected for the purpose of comparison.
The records may be copied for the purpose of research.
The categories were merged for the purpose of statistical analysis.
Precision Matters
For the purpose of overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
for the purpose of
vs.Signals with the specific aim or intention of doing something.
as a means of
Means as a method or instrument for achieving a purpose.
for the purpose of
vs.Signals with the specific aim or intention of doing something.
for the sake of
Means for the benefit, preservation, clarity, convenience, or purpose of someone or something.
for the purpose of
vs.Signals with the specific aim or intention of doing something.
because of
Means as a result of; introduces a noun phrase naming a cause.
for the purpose of
vs.Signals with the specific aim or intention of doing something.
following from
Means arising as a logical consequence, implication, or result of something.
Test for the purpose of in Context
The comparison is the planned objective of the sampling procedure.
1
The researchers collected equal-volume samples specifically ___ comparing grain sizes across layers.