aim

/eɪm/
intention or goal

Her aim is to become a doctor.

She has the goal of becoming a doctor.


general

An intention or goal that guides action.

The team's aim is to win the championship.

The team's goal is to win the championship.

Often used in the phrase 'aim to' or 'aim at'.

general

To direct or point something toward a target.

Aim the camera at the sunset.

Point the camera toward the sunset.

Commonly used with objects like weapons, cameras, or tools.

Collocations

aim atto direct something toward a targetaim toto intend to achieve something

Related Phrases

aim highphrase
to set ambitious goals
aim for the starsphrase
to strive for great achievements

Pro Tip

Common Usage

'Aim' as a verb often requires 'at' when referring to direction (e.g., 'aim at the target').

Gold Rule

Noun vs. Verb

As a noun, 'aim' refers to a goal; as a verb, it means to direct something toward a target.

Word Origin

From Middle English 'aymen', from Old English 'on-ġean' (on + against), influenced by Old French 'esmer' (to aim).

Usage Notes

Can be used as a noun or verb. As a verb, it often takes the preposition 'at' when referring to direction.

Word Breakdown

aim
to direct or intend
root
English Dictionary