to little purpose Definition

purpose
noun

1. The object or aim in doing something.

Thesaurus: goal, end, mission, objective, design, target, resolve, intent, proposal, prospect, ambition, destination.
2. The function for which something is intended.
3. The intentions, aspirations, aim or goal.

Example: no purpose in life
4. Determination; resolve.

Example: a woman of purpose
Thesaurus: resolution, tenacity, persistence, grit, perseverance, constancy, determination, confidence.

verb

purposed, purposing
1. To intend (to do something).

Thesaurus: intend, aim, propose, plan.

Derivative: purposeless
adj

Without purpose; aimless.

Derivative: purposely
adj

Intentionally.
Thesaurus: intentionally, designedly, advisedly.

Idiom: on purpose

Intentionally; deliberately.

Idiom: to little purpose (to no purpose)

With few, or no, useful results.

Idiom: to the purpose

Relevant; to the point.

Etymology: 13c: from French pourpos, from Latin proponere to intend.