on purpose

phrase

Definition of on purposenext
as in intentionally
with full awareness of what one is doing I'm sorry, but I didn't knock the vase over on purpose.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of on purpose Brady toyed with Gronkowski at first, hitting a Cane’s logo just above the target on purpose, and did so again with a different one. — Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 18 July 2026 Unlike her husband, Barroso is far from a household name—and that’s very much on purpose. — Emma Banks, InStyle, 17 July 2026 Washington said Wednesday that the decision to not invite NIPSCO was made on purpose. — Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 16 July 2026 Heirloom Bibles One of the things that truly makes my heart sink is seeing a family Bible go into the donation bin, whether by mistake or on purpose. — Jennifer Prince, Southern Living, 15 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for on purpose

Browse Nearby Words

on pins and needles
on purpose
on record
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Cite this Entry

“On purpose.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/on%20purpose. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on on purpose

Nglish: Translation of on purpose for Spanish Speakers

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