The phrase “at cross purposes” implies that two or more people or groups are attempting to achieve different things that are in conflict with each other. It’s like saying “having conflicting goals” or “working against each other”.
Here are two examples in sentences:
Example 1:
“The two departments were working at cross purposes, causing delays in the project,” meaning the different goals or methods of the departments were causing conflicts and slowing down the project.
Example 2:
“Despite their love for each other, they were often at cross purposes,” implying that even though they cared for each other, their individual desires or goals often clashed.
Now, let’s see this phrase in conversation:
Example 3:
Ben: “Why can’t we get this project finished?”
Jill: “I think it’s because the design team and the development team are working at cross purposes.”
Example 4:
Alicia: “I feel like we argue a lot lately.”
Tom: “I think it’s because we’re at cross purposes. We need to figure out a way to align our goals.”
So, the phrase “at cross purposes” is used when people’s intentions or goals are in conflict, causing disagreements or preventing progress.
