The Collaborative International Dictionary
To be at cross-purposes
cross-purpose \cross"-pur`pose\ (-p?r`p?s), n.
A counter or opposing purpose; a contrary aim; hence, that which is inconsistent or contradictory.
--Shaftesbury.-
pl. A conversational game, in which questions and answers are made so as to involve ludicrous combinations of ideas.
--Pepys.To be at cross-purposes, to misunderstand or to act counter to one another without intending it; -- said of persons.
Usage examples of "to be at cross-purposes".
That way we can do much together without coming to be at cross-purposes.
I hated to be at cross-purposes with Jesse, whom I admired, especially for his efforts to persuade black youngsters to stay in school and off drugs.