Target: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in contexts related to goals that are specific and measurable, often in business, marketing, and technical fields. It can also refer to someone or something being aimed at in a competitive or aggressive manner.

• Our sales target for this quarter is $50,000
• She became the primary target of the investigation

Often used in personal development, sports, and business settings where an end result is sought after. It implies a broader and more long-term pursuit than 'target'.

• Her goal is to run a marathon next year
• The company's goal is to expand internationally

Used in formal settings like business and education, where specific steps or outcomes are clearly defined. It emphasizes clarity and specificity.

• Our objective is to reduce costs by 10% this year
• The main objective of this project is to improve efficiency

Used for intentions or purposes that are more general and less quantifiable. It often reflects a personal or organizational intention to achieve something.

• Their aim is to provide the best customer service
• My aim in life is to be happy

Used when talking about an objective or a goal, often in a business or competitive setting.

• Our sales team has a target of reaching $1 million in revenue this quarter
• The archer hit the target perfectly

Refers specifically to the center of a target, especially in shooting or archery. It can also be used metaphorically in everyday language to indicate a perfect aim or hit.

• He hit the bullseye three times in a row
• You really hit the bullseye with that idea!

General term that can refer to a target or objective. It can also mean a distinguishing sign or symbol. In a negative context, 'mark' can refer to a person who is the target of a scam or crime.

• You've made your mark on this project
• John was the perfect mark for their scam

Primarily used in hunting to refer to the animal being hunted. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a person or thing being pursued or sought after.

• The hunters finally caught up with their quarry
• The detectives were closing in on their quarry

Best used when referring to specific goals or objectives, often in a strategic, business, or marketing context.

• Our main target for this quarter is to increase sales by 20%.
• The company has identified young professionals as their primary target market.

Commonly used when discussing the intention to achieve a specific result or affect a particular group. It often has a broader, more general application than 'target'.

• The new policy aims at reducing carbon emissions.
• The campaign aims at raising awareness about mental health issues.

Best used when emphasizing concentration or attention on a particular task, issue, or area. It suggests a deeper level of engagement or involvement.

• We need to focus on improving our customer service.
• The research team will focus on new cancer treatments.

Typically used in scenarios where actions, efforts, or resources are being channeled in a specific direction or towards a specific goal. More formal than 'aim at'.

• His efforts were directed towards finding a solution to the problem.
• The resources were directed towards the development of new technology.