aim 1 of 2

aim

2 of 2

noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun aim contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of aim are design, end, goal, intention, intent, objective, object, and purpose. While all these words mean "what one intends to accomplish or attain," aim adds to these implications of effort directed toward attaining or accomplishing.

her aim was to raise film to an art form

When is design a more appropriate choice than aim?

Although the words design and aim have much in common, design implies a more carefully calculated plan.

the order of events came by accident, not design

Where would end be a reasonable alternative to aim?

While the synonyms end and aim are close in meaning, end stresses the intended effect of action often in distinction or contrast to the action or means as such.

willing to use any means to achieve his end

When would goal be a good substitute for aim?

The words goal and aim can be used in similar contexts, but goal suggests something attained only by prolonged effort and hardship.

worked years to reach her goals

In what contexts can intent take the place of aim?

The words intent and aim are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, intent suggests clearer formulation or greater deliberateness.

the clear intent of the statute

When might intention be a better fit than aim?

In some situations, the words intention and aim are roughly equivalent. However, intention implies little more than what one has in mind to do or bring about.

announced his intention to marry

How are the words object and end related as synonyms of aim?

Object may equal end but more often applies to a more individually determined wish or need.

his constant object was the achievement of pleasure

When can objective be used instead of aim?

The synonyms objective and aim are sometimes interchangeable, but objective implies something tangible and immediately attainable.

their objective is to seize the oil fields

When could purpose be used to replace aim?

While in some cases nearly identical to aim, purpose suggests a more settled determination.

being successful was her purpose in life

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of aim
Verb
Our new midday Sunday slot is aimed at focusing on fandom, creating habit and offering choice to fans of the WSL. Asif Burhan, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025 China aims to land humans at the South Pole before the year 2030. Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 3 Sep. 2025
Noun
While normal interaction between players and referees will continue, the aim is that guidance will stop players from surrounding the referees in key incidents. Cerys Jones, New York Times, 2 Sep. 2025 The aim of the initiative is to ensure that customer data is stored within the European Union to maintain compliance with regional data protection regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation, or GDPR. Ryan Browne, CNBC, 2 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for aim
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aim
Verb
  • Though the bill is yet to be finalized, the orbital station is cast as the linchpin of sustainable exploration to enable longer stays, partner investment and cislunar monitoring.
    Josh Dinner, Space.com, 4 Sep. 2025
  • The stages of the eclipse include penumbral and umbral phases, which refer to the two main parts of the shadow that the moon casts.
    Melina Khan, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • However, they were limited to single steps to tackle multi-surface flooring and not intended for use on stairs.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 4 Sep. 2025
  • Although grand juries are intended to provide a check on prosecutorial power, Blackman said that check can become a shield against justice when used this way.
    Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 4 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Their goal was to find an IP address — the unique identifier assigned to every cell phone and computer — that could reveal the source.
    Samantha Stutsman, People.com, 3 Sep. 2025
  • Krystian Rafacz delivered the game-winning goal in overtime for the Porters (4-0).
    Steve Millar, Chicago Tribune, 3 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • The emergency proclamation authorizes the Hawaii National Guard to assist civilian authorities and directs all state agencies to cooperate in response efforts.
    Jon Haworth, ABC News, 6 Sep. 2025
  • Mourinho’s arrival at United was a response to some of the criticisms directed at his predecessor, Louis van Gaal.
    Carl Anka, New York Times, 5 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Plus-size travelers are encouraged to plan and research seat dimensions, potentially budgeting for an extra seat.
    Zach Wichter, USA Today, 4 Sep. 2025
  • Under the previous deal, the bonds were tied up with gate revenues, which took a hit during the pandemic, so the club’s owners — via Lewis — refinanced the loans, incurring a £32m break cost to end the loan sooner than planned.
    Dan Sheldon, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • It hasn’t been approved by the FDA for that purpose and hasn’t been shown to be effective.
    Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Sep. 2025
  • This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice.
    Nia Bowers, USA Today, 4 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Gibson took the second set 6-3 and led 7-6 in the third when the skies opened and play was called for the day.
    Matthew Futterman, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2025
  • The airport has set records for number of passengers through the end of 2024.
    Vinod Sreeharsha, Miami Herald, 6 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Espada and his club must hope Salazar can spark a longer streak.
    Chandler Rome, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2025
  • Louisville Metro Council is considering an ordinance to define and regulate new types of homeless shelters that council members hope will help expand shelter access during periods of extreme weather.
    Killian Baarlaer, The Courier-Journal, 3 Sep. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Aim.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aim. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on aim

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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