Phrase guide

dative of purpose

noun · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

noun

Meaning 1

The dative case in its use to indicate purpose.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: Classical

Topics: human-sciences, linguistics, sciences

Examples

  • The dative of purpose is rare in this type of writing.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

noun

Meaning 2

A specific use of the dative case in this way.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: Classical, countable, uncommon

Topics: human-sciences, linguistics, sciences

Examples

  • This poem is filled with datives of purpose.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

1 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Latin: dativus finalis — dative case in its use to indicate purpose