object
/ˈɒbdʒɪkt/a material thing that can be seen and touched
The detective examined the object carefully.
The detective looked at the physical item closely.
In everyday language, 'object' refers to any tangible thing.
a goal or aim that someone is trying to achieve
His object was to finish the project on time.
His goal was to complete the project by the deadline.
In this sense, 'object' refers to an abstract goal or purpose.
a person, animal, or thing that is the target of an action or feeling
In the sentence 'She kicked the ball,' the ball is the object.
The ball is the receiver of the action in the sentence.
In grammar, an object is the noun or pronoun that receives the action of the verb.
Collocations
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Distinguishing Physical and Abstract Objects
Remember that 'object' can refer to both tangible things and abstract goals, depending on the context.
⚡Gold Rule
Grammatical Objects
In grammar, the object is the noun or pronoun that receives the action of the verb.
📖Word Origin
From Old French 'objet,' from Latin 'objectum,' meaning 'thing thrown before,' from 'ob-' (against) + 'jacere' (to throw).
📝Usage Notes
The word 'object' can refer to both physical things and abstract goals. In grammar, it refers to the receiver of a verb's action.