cross purposes

See also: cross-purposes

English

plural of cross purpose.
(plural-noun) Conflicting, or contrary meanings or ideas, usually arising unintentionally.
- 1837, Letitia Elizabeth Landon, Ethel Churchill, volume 3, page 108:
  "Well," continued Lavinia, "life is just like a comedy, only it does not end so pleasantly; but it has just as many cross purposes. Here I am in love with you, who care only for Miss Churchill; she, again, loves Mr. Courtenaye, and he loves only himself, as far as I can make out."