target language

noun

1
: a language into which another language is to be translated compare source language
2
: a language other than one's native language that is being learned

Examples of target language in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Translations to the target language are getting better, and disinformation is harder to spot, security researchers said. Joseph Menn, Washington Post, 11 May 2023 For total immersion, lessons are conducted in the target language and feature interactive real-life scenarios and pronunciation feedback. Simon Hill, WIRED, 13 Dec. 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'target language.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1953, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of target language was in 1953

Dictionary Entries Near target language

Cite this Entry

“Target language.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/target%20language. Accessed 5 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on target language

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!