Contract Glossary
Frustration of Purpose
Definition
A legal doctrine that excuses contractual performance when an unforeseen event destroys the fundamental reason the contract was made — even though performance is still technically possible. The contract can still be performed, but performing it would be pointless because the underlying purpose has been eliminated by circumstances neither party caused or anticipated.
In Practice
You rent a storefront on a parade route for $5,000 to sell merchandise during the annual city parade. The city cancels the parade due to a public health emergency. You could still use the storefront — the lease is technically performable — but the entire reason you rented it (the parade crowd) no longer exists. Frustration of purpose may excuse your obligation to pay rent, because the fundamental purpose of the contract has been destroyed by an event neither party caused. This is different from impossibility (where you can't perform) — here, you can perform; it's just pointless.
Common in these contract types
Related articles
Photography Contract Template: What Every Photographer Must Include
A complete guide to photography contracts — covering licensing, usage rights, cancellation policies, and payment terms every photographer needs.
Florida Contract Requirements (2026 Guide)
Florida contract requirements — NDA enforcement under FUTSA, non-compete statutes, residential lease laws, and contractor licensing rules.
How to Write a Lease Agreement Without a Lawyer
Create a legally sound residential lease on your own. What to include, what to avoid, and when to get professional help.
Frequently asked questions about frustration of purpose
Force majeure excuses performance when an event makes it impossible or impractical to perform. Frustration of purpose excuses performance when performance is still possible but the reason for the contract has been destroyed. Example: a venue rental during a pandemic — if the government bans gatherings, that's force majeure (you can't hold the event). If gatherings are allowed but the headliner cancels and no one will attend, that might be frustration of purpose (you can hold the event, but there's no point).
Create a contract with proper frustration of purpose clauses
Generate a professional contract in minutes with all the essential clauses — no legal expertise needed.
Create your contractThis content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For contracts with significant financial or legal implications, review by a qualified attorney is recommended.