to pretend to be or to do something, especially in a way that is not easy to believe

They purport to represent the wishes of the majority of parents at the school. 他们声称自己代表了该校大多数学生家长的愿望。

The study purports to show an increase in the incidence of the disease. 该研究据称显示出这种疾病的发病率在上升。

The tape recording purports to be of a conversation between the princess and a secret admirer. 这盒录音带据称是王妃和她的一个秘密爱慕者之间的谈话。

the general meaning of someone's words or actions

I didn't read it all but I think the purport of the letter was that he will not be returning for at least a year. 我没有把信读完，但我想这封信的大意是说他至少一年不回来。