How to say "purpose" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 目的もくてきnounThe core word for an aim or objective: the purpose of a meeting, trip, plan, or project. When 'purpose' means the goal behind an action, this is the word you want.
- nounSomeone's own intention or plan — what they mean to do; usually written in kana. For 'purpose' in the sense of an aim, this is seldom the word you want; it is really 'intention'.
- 意思いしnounA person's will or intention — what they wish or have in mind to do. For 'purpose' meaning an aim or objective this is at best a marginal choice; the goal itself is 目的.
- 使い道つかいみちnounThe use a thing can be put to — its practical utility or usefulness. This covers 'purpose' in the sense of 'what is it for', closer to 'use' than to a goal.
- 用途ようとnounThe use a thing is put to or designed for — 'use' more than 'purpose'. For an aim or goal, turn to 目的; for what a thing is used for, this or 使い道 fits.
Use 目的 for the aim behind an action or plan, 「つもり」 or 意思 when 'purpose' is really a person's intention, and 用途 or 「使い道」 for the use something serves.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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