aim and purpose share a recorded sense, so the question is not what they mean but which one fits. aim means “point or cause to go (blows, weapons, or objects such as photographic equipment) towards”. purpose means “an anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions”. purpose is the more common of the two in everyday English.
/ˈeɪm/
1.v.point or cause to go (blows, weapons, or objects such as photographic equipment) towards
“Please don't aim at your little brother!”
2.v.propose or intend
“I aim to arrive at noon”
3.v.move into a desired direction of discourse
“What are you driving at?”
| aim | purpose | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | /ˈeɪm/ | /ˈpɝpəs/ |
| Said | aym | PUR-puhs |
| Syllables | 1 | 2 |
| Letters | 3 | 7 |
| Parts of speech | verb, noun | noun, verb |
| Senses | 11 | 5 |
| How common | Common | Core |
| Synonyms | take, train, take aim | intent, intention, aim |
Full entry for aim · Full entry for purpose · More comparisons
/ˈpɝpəs/
1.n.an anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions
“his intent was to provide a new translation”
2.n.what something is used for
“the function of an auger is to bore holes”
3.n.the quality of being determined to do or achieve something; firmness of purpose
“his determination showed in his every movement”