goal
Her goal is to graduate with honors.
She aims to achieve top grades by the end of her studies.
A desired result or aim that a person or group wants to achieve.
The company set clear goals for the next quarter.
The company defined specific objectives to accomplish in three months.
His goal in life is to become a doctor.
He hopes to achieve his ambition of practicing medicine.
Often used in personal development, business, and sports contexts.
In sports, a structure or area where the ball must be sent to score points.
The striker kicked the ball into the goal.
The player successfully sent the ball into the net to score.
Common in football (soccer), hockey, and other ball sports.
To direct or aim something toward a target.
She goals the camera at the sunset.
She points the camera toward the setting sun.
Less common than the noun form; often used in photography or aiming contexts.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Use 'goal' for measurable objectives
Prefer 'goal' over vague terms like 'dream' when referring to specific, achievable targets (e.g., 'My goal is to save $5,000 this year').
Gold Rule
Goal vs. Dream
A 'goal' is a concrete, actionable target with a deadline, while a 'dream' is a general aspiration without a clear plan.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'gol', from Old English 'gāl' (objection, sport), from Old Norse 'gól' (shout, noise), related to 'gala' (to enjoy). The sense of 'aim' emerged in the 16th century.
Usage Notes
In modern usage, 'goal' is most commonly associated with personal or professional objectives. In sports, it specifically refers to the scoring structure. Avoid confusing the verb form ('to goal') with the noun form unless in technical contexts like photography.