target - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
target Word Meanings
- a goal or objective
- an aim for action
- a person or thing aimed at
target Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
target Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtɑːɡɪt/
US
/ˈtɑrɡɪt/
target Word Etymology
Root: 'target' (from Old French 'terget', meaning 'a mark'). Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a dartboard where each dart thrown represents an effort to hit a specific goal or target.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I steady my grip and move my eyes toward a distant mark. I shift my stance, turn my torso, and push a little more toward the object I’m aiming at. It feels like control pressing back, a careful adjust, a small decision about where to aim, where to keep my focus. When the sight lands on the target, the idea emerges as a goal I set in motion, something I can keep pursuing in real tasks.
Real Context
In English, target can be a noun meaning a goal or objective, or a verb meaning to aim at or direct attention toward something. People talk about a target as a measurable endpoint (a sales target, a project target) and also about targeting a person or audience (target group, target date). The phrase hit the target and miss the target are common, and target can describe both the object you want to hit and the action you take to hit it. A memory image is a dartboard with a precise mark to hit.
Usage Reminders
- Target can be a noun or a verb.
- Use target audience and target date in appropriate contexts.
- Say hit the target or miss the target to describe success or failure.
- Prefer goal or aim for general objectives.
- Be clear about whether you are targeting a person, a group, or a goal.
Common Misconceptions
- Target always means a physical mark; in fact it often means a goal or group you focus on.
- To target something always requires a direct object; some contexts use intransitive senses with targets.
- Target and goal are interchangeable; in professional English, target emphasizes the act of aiming or selecting a focal point.
- Target audience is always a broad group; it can be a very specific subset you intend to reach.
- Miss the target means failure; it can also mean failing to hit a numeric or strategic benchmark precisely.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, target carries both a concrete endpoint sense (a numeric target) and a directive sense (to target a group or situation). Learners often mix up target with goal or aim, and may misplace it with people or objects when they intend only a general objective.
Learning Tips
- Learn the two main senses (noun for goal, verb for aiming).
- Practice with phrases: target audience, target date, hit the target, miss the target.
- Differentiate target from goal and aim in context.
- Use direct object with to target (target a market, target a group).
- Mix synonyms (goal, objective, aim) to avoid overusing target.
- Create real-life sentences about projects or campaigns.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'target'?
A.Comfort
B.Goal
C.Puzzle
D.Routine
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'target' used correctly?
A.She missed her target at the archery competition.
B.He bought a new book to target his shelf.
C.The cat targeted the ball of yarn with precision.
D.We need to target the grocery store before it closes.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'target'?
A.Aim
B.Avoid
C.Explore
D.Neglect
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'target'?
A.Hit
B.Miss
C.Achieve
D.Reach
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'target'?
A.Singing lessons
B.Cooking recipes
C.Bicycle repair
D.Marketing campaign
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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