B1verb1K

Aim

UK /["/eɪm/","/eɪmz/","/eɪmd/","/ˈeɪmɪŋ/"]/US /["/eɪm/","/eɪmz/","/eɪmd/","/ˈeɪmɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to try or plan to achieve something

In simple words: To plan or intend to reach a goal.

Examples

  • I aim to finish my project by the end of the week.
  • She aims to improve her English skills this year.
  • The archer took careful aim before releasing the arrow.
  • He set his sights high and aimed for the championship.
  • They aim their efforts at reducing waste.
  • His comments were aimed at educating the audience on climate change.
  • The shooter has to aim accurately to hit the target.

Usage notes

Use 'aim' when talking about goals or targets. It's suitable in both spoken and written English, but avoid using it in very casual conversations. In academic writing, 'aim' often refers to the purpose of a study.

Grammar pattern

aim + at/object

Memory hint

Think of an archer aiming for a bullseye — they always have a target.

Collocations

  • at
  • for
  • aim high
  • clearly
  • directly
  • squarely
  • be aimed at
  • clearly
  • directly
  • squarely
  • be aimed at
  • directly
  • straight
  • carefully
  • at
  • for

Synonyms

  • target
  • intend
  • strive
  • aspire
  • plan

Antonyms

  • neglect
  • ignore
  • disregard

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'aim for' with 'aim at' when discussing targets.
  • Using 'aim' without an object (e.g., 'I aim' should be followed by 'to do something').
  • Incorrectly conjugating 'aim' in different tenses.