What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
aim
Example
My aim is to finish this project by the end of the week. [aim: noun]
Example
She aimed the ball towards the goalpost. [aimed: past tense verb]
Example
The company aims to reduce its carbon footprint by 50%. [aims: present tense verb]
purpose
Example
The purpose of this meeting is to discuss our progress. [purpose: noun]
Example
The purpose of a hammer is to drive nails into wood. [purpose: noun]
Example
The purpose of our organization is to promote environmental sustainability. [purpose: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Purpose is more commonly used than aim in everyday language. Purpose is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while aim is more specific and often used in professional or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between aim and purpose?
Purpose is generally considered more formal than aim, and is often used in academic or professional writing. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context and audience.
