purpose

Purpose is the reason for which something is done or created, or for which something exists. It denotes the intended outcome, use, or aim of an action, object, process, or institution, and it often guides decisions and behavior.

Its etymology traces to Latin propositum, meaning "a thing proposed," via Old French purpos.

Philosophically, purpose is linked to teleology—the view that processes have ends or goals. Aristotle described a natural tendency toward an end, or telos. In contemporary science, explanations often separate purpose from mechanism, addressing function or selection rather than intentional aims.

In personal life, purpose provides meaning, shaping motivation, goals, and resilience. In organizations, a mission or purpose statement articulates intended impact and guides strategy, culture, and evaluation.

Purpose can be subjective, multi-layered, and situational. Critics note that clinging to a single overarching purpose can be constraining; instead, people may pursue multiple purposes across different domains.