Goal or objective (6) Crossword Clue
Answer: TARGET (6 letters)
The answer to the crossword clue "Goal or objective" with 6 letters is "TARGET".Target refers to a specific goal, objective, or focus that one aims to achieve. It can apply to a wide range of contexts, from hitting a physical mark in sports or archery, to achieving a business milestone or personal aspiration, representing the point of focus for efforts and actions.
Why “Target” Fits
The clue asks for a single word (6 letters) meaning “goal or objective.” The answer, TARGET, fits perfectly:
Goal or objective: Target refers to an aim, goal, or specific objective that a person or group strives to achieve — exactly matching the clue’s definition.
Direct match: With six letters, target fits the enumeration precisely.
Precise meaning: The word expresses both the literal and figurative idea of a point of focus, something one aims for — whether physically, strategically, or metaphorically.
The term target has broad application across different fields, from archery and business to science and everyday conversation:
- Origin and usage: The word target originates from the Old French targe (meaning “small shield”), which was adopted into English around the 14th century. The original meaning referred to a shield used for protection in battle. Over time, the term evolved to mean a point at which one aims — whether in archery, gun practice, or abstract language.
Literal sense:
- A marked object or location at which a shot, arrow, or projectile is aimed.
- For example: “The archer hit the bullseye at the centre of the target.”
Figurative sense:
- A goal, aim, or desired result.
- Common in both business and personal contexts — “The company met its sales targets.”
Examples:
- “Her main target is to complete the project by March.”
- “The advertising campaign reached its intended target audience.”
- “They set a target of planting a million trees this year.”
In quick crosswords like “Goal or objective (6),” synonyms for achievement or aim are common straightforward answers:
- Definition: “Goal or objective” directly defines target as an intended result or destination.
- Clue type: Pure definition clue — simple vocabulary-based, no hidden meaning.
Solving approach:
- Look for words that describe aims or intentions — goal, purpose, aim, object, target.
- The enumeration (6) narrows it to target, which perfectly embodies both meanings in the clue.
Crossword clue pattern: Words like target and aim regularly appear in crosswords because of their clear dual meanings — both literal (in aiming) and figurative (in planning).
