aim

[eɪm]

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aiming - aim

An aim is a target or goal that someone wants to achieve.

When we talk about aiming at something, it's not just about shooting arrows at a target – although that's one way to think about it! We usually use the word "aim" when we're talking about trying to do something well. For example, if you're practicing your tennis serve, you might say "I'm going to aim for the corner of the net". Or, if you're planning a vacation, you might say "My aim is to see as many sights in Paris as possible in just three days". In both cases, you have a clear idea of what you want to do or achieve – that's your aim.

How common is "aim"?

Word aim is considered common in modern English.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.

Definitions

noun

The pointing of a weapon, as a gun, a dart, or an arrow, or object, in the line of direction with the object intended to be struck; the line of fire; the direction of anything, such as a spear, a blow, a discourse, a remark, towards a particular point or object, with a view to strike or affect it.
Example: Take time with the aim of your gun.
The point intended to be hit, or object intended to be attained or affected.
Intention or goal
Example: My number one aim in life is to make money to make my parents, siblings and kids happy.
The ability of someone to aim straight; one's faculty for being able to hit a physical target
Example: The police officer has excellent aim, always hitting the bullseye in shooting practice.
Conjecture; guess.

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aspirationdesignendettleintention

verb

To point or direct a missile, or a weapon which propels as missile, towards an object or spot with the intent of hitting it
Example: He aimed at the target, but the arrow flew straight over it.
To direct the intention or purpose; to attempt the accomplishment of a purpose; to try to gain; to endeavor;—followed by at, or by an infinitive
Example: to aim at a pass
To direct or point (e.g. a weapon), at a particular object; to direct, as a missile, an act, or a proceeding, at, to, or against an object
Example: She aimed a punch at her ex-boyfriend.
To direct (something verbal) towards a certain person, thing, or group
Example: to aim a satirical comment at Communists in general
To guess or conjecture.