teleological
/ˌtel.i.əˈlɒdʒ.ɪ.kəl/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
Describing an idea, action, or process that is guided by a final purpose or goal. It suggests that something is understood by its end result, not only by its cause.
- Her argument was teleological.
- The essay uses a teleological view of history.
- They asked a teleological question about human behavior.
Adinary Nuance
Teleological is more specific than practical or purposeful. It does not just mean “useful” or “done with intent”; it means explained by a goal, end, or purpose. Writers use it in philosophy, history, biology, and academic analysis when the final aim matters.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- mang tính mục đích
- Spanish
- teleológico
- Chinese
- 目的论的
- Japanese
- 目的論の
- Korean
- 목적론적인
Etymology
From Greek telos, meaning “end” or “purpose,” plus -logical. The word entered English through philosophy and academic writing.
Common phrases
teleological argumentteleological thinkingteleological explanationteleological view
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is teleological a common everyday word?
- No, it is mostly used in academic, philosophical, or scientific writing.
- What is the difference between teleological and purposeful?
- Purposeful means done with intention. Teleological means explained by a final goal or end.
- Can I use teleological in business writing?
- Only if you are writing formally and want a precise academic tone.
- What does teleological analysis mean?
- It means analyzing something by asking what goal or end it serves.