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Olive bee Posted 9 years ago
Grammar

Lexis

Can I use the word "duty" in the meaning of "purpose"? E.g.: ships' duties (different kinds of ships are meant)???

  

Top answer

"ships' duties" is correct English, meaning the duties of ships (plural). "duty" does not exactly mean "purpose", however. "duties" means the tasks that someone or something is required to perform.

— GPY

  • "ships' duties" is correct English, meaning the duties of ships (plural).
  • "duty" does not exactly mean "purpose", however.
  • "duties" means the tasks that someone or something is required to perform.
  • Most often the word applies to people.
  • We don't particularly often say that ships have "duties", but it is possible.
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8 Answers
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"ships' duties" is correct English, meaning the duties of ships (plural). "duty" does not exactly mean "purpose", however. "duties" means the tasks that someone or something is required to perform. Most often the word applies to people. We don't particularly often say that ships have "duties", but it is possible. More context is needed.

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Is it possible to say "Tankers' duty is carrying oil" ??? Or only "Tankers' purpose is ....." ???

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Neither one seems natural. What is the whole sentence?

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Ships are intended for different duties.

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Ships are designed according to their intended uses.

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You've omitted the word "duties" at all . I caught your idea. But I was interested only in this word in this meaning. Possible or NOT ???

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Or ;'Ship's design depends on her duty"

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"Duty" is usually associated with people, not ships.

And it is usually connected with an assigned task.

I was called for jury duty.
The duty of the sheep dog is to protect the flocks from wolves. 
The primary duty of the corporals is to train recruits.
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