Spanish word

propósito

Pronunciation

IPA/pɾoˈposito/

Meaning

  • masculine nounpurpose

Example

Mi propósito es aprender español.

My purpose is to learn Spanish.

Illustration for propósito (purpose)

More examples

El propósito de esta reunión es mejorar la fluidez oral.

The purpose of this meeting is to improve speaking fluency.

Core concept

A stated goal guiding an action.

Common phrases

  • tener como propósito

    have as a purpose

  • el propósito de la reunión

    the meeting's purpose

Similar words

objetivo: A clear, concrete target set to be achieved as part of a plan.
intención: An inner will or mental decision to do something.
motivo: A reason or cause that prompts someone to act.

Definition in Spanish

Finalidad o razón por la que se hace algo, especialmente cuando implica un plan o compromiso personal.

Word origin

From Latin propositum, the past participle of proponere 'to put forward', originally meaning 'that which is proposed' and later 'intention'.

Usage tips

  • The noun propósito is different from the adverbial phrase a propósito, which means 'on purpose' or 'by the way' and is used differently in conversation.

Other meanings

  • intentionnoun
  • determinationnoun

Opposites

Word lists with this word