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el propósito means purpose — a common term in Academic & Exam Prep. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: January 25, 2026

🧠 Academic & Exam Prep

el propósito

noun • /[pro-PO-see-to]/

purpose

Example:

El propósito del ensayo está claro.

The essay’s purpose is clear.

🧠 What does el propósito mean?

El propósito refers to the aim, intention, or goal behind an action, plan, or object. It signifies the reason why something is done, created, or exists. It is often used in formal and academic contexts to discuss the objective of a study, text, or project. Additionally, it can describe a firm resolution or personal goal, particularly in the context of self-improvement, such as 'propósitos de Año Nuevo' (New Year's resolutions).

📚 Extra examples

  • El propósito de esta reunión es discutir el presupuesto anual.
    The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the annual budget.
  • Uno de mis propósitos de Año Nuevo es leer más libros.
    One of my New Year's resolutions is to read more books.
  • Cada objeto en el museo tiene un propósito específico en la exposición.
    Each object in the museum has a specific purpose in the exhibition.

💡 Did You Know?

The phrase 'a propósito' is a very useful expression. It can mean 'on purpose' when used to describe an intentional action, as in 'No fue un accidente, lo hizo a propósito'. It can also be used as a discourse marker meaning 'by the way', as in 'A propósito, ¿recibiste mi correo electrónico?'.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "el propósito"

Synonyms: el objetivo, la finalidad, la intención, la meta
Opposites: la casualidad, el azar, la falta de propósito

🔍 See more academic & exam prep words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'purpose' in Spanish?
The most common and direct translation for 'purpose' is 'el propósito'. Depending on the context, other words like 'la finalidad', 'el objetivo', or 'la intención' can also be used.
How do you pronounce 'el propósito' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is 'el pro-PO-si-to'. The emphasis is on the third syllable, 'po'. The 's' is pronounced like the 's' in 'see', not like a 'z'.
How do you use 'el propósito' in a sentence?
It is used to state the reason or goal for something. For example: 'El propósito del informe es presentar los resultados de la investigación.' (The purpose of the report is to present the research findings.)
What is the English translation of 'el propósito'?
The primary English translation of 'el propósito' is 'purpose'. It can also be translated as 'aim', 'goal', 'intention', or 'resolution'.
Does 'el propósito' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'propósito' is a masculine noun, so it changes for number. The singular form is 'el propósito' and the plural form is 'los propósitos'.
Is 'el propósito' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, it is a frequently used word in both formal and standard Spanish. It is very common when discussing intentions, plans, and goals in various contexts.
Does 'el propósito' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'el propósito' itself does not have slang meanings. However, the related phrase 'a propósito' is very common and can mean either 'on purpose' (intentionally) or 'by the way'.
Is 'el propósito' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, the meaning and usage of 'el propósito' are consistent across all major Spanish-speaking regions.

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