What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
heterotelic
Example
Playing games is a heterotelic activity since it is done for its own sake and not to achieve a specific goal. [heterotelic: adjective]
Example
The artist enjoyed creating art for the sake of the process, without any expectation of a particular outcome. [for the sake of: prepositional phrase]
teleological
Example
Studying for an exam is a teleological activity since it is done with the specific goal of passing the exam. [teleological: adjective]
Example
The company's teleological approach to business emphasizes achieving specific objectives and goals. [teleological: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Teleological is more commonly used than heterotelic in everyday language. Teleological is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while heterotelic is less common and more specialized, typically used in academic or philosophical discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between heterotelic and teleological?
Both heterotelic and teleological are formal words that are more likely to be used in academic or philosophical contexts than in everyday conversation.
