aim

Definition of aimnext

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 So began the journey to create a hideaway resort sensitive to the natural environment and a marine reserve with the aim to recover the coral reefs damaged by dynamite fishing. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 June 2026 Diana Ross’ missed penalty In an understated, nuanced opening ceremony for the 1994 World Cup in the United States, Diana Ross, having been introduced by Oprah Winfrey, emerged between a field of dancers holding white cards above their heads and took aim for a penalty kick. Tim Spiers, New York Times, 3 June 2026 The lawmakers in the letter took aim specifically at Fuyao. Garrett Downs, CNBC, 3 June 2026 The aim of the project is to rapidly develop mass-producible, affordable, and attritable robotic platforms for combat, logistics, and sustainment operations. David Szondy june 03, New Atlas, 3 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for aim
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aim
Verb
  • Sennott, 30, appeared alongside Hacks star Hannah Einbinder, Saturday Night Live cast member Ashley Padilla, Keke Palmer, and Abbott Elementary star Quinta Brunson on The Hollywood Reporter's Comedy Actresses Roundtable.
    Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 29 May 2026
  • Massive drills of Russia’s nuclear forces earlier this month and a series of belligerent statements from Moscow warning Kyiv’s European allies about possible retaliation for what the Kremlin cast as their involvement in Ukrainian drone attacks have underlined Putin’s intention to up the ante.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2026
Verb
  • The company has emphasized that the system is intended to improve speed, accuracy and experience for customers and crew, not replace jobs.
    ABC NEWS, ABC News, 8 June 2026
  • Harvey Steinberg, Cooper’s attorney, said the defense team doesn’t intend to file any motion to dismiss and wants the case to be heard by a jury.
    Lauren Penington, Denver Post, 8 June 2026
Noun
  • Washington says the goal is to reduce aid dependence while advancing US interests.
    Nimi Princewill, CNN Money, 8 June 2026
  • If the goal is to raise awareness, the best course of action is probably to let the subclinical cases be counted.
    Sloane Crosley, New Yorker, 8 June 2026
Verb
  • The book, by Martyna Majok (of Cost of Living, which was also directed by Bonney), merges past and present through Susanna’s narration, while Bonney has the show’s ensemble onstage around her as their characters interject in Susanna’s story, sometimes to play a scene, sometimes to add commentary.
    Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 5 June 2026
  • Vang’s supporters, including members of the California Working Families Party and the California Nurses Association, have accused Matsui of directing a super PAC to spend $119,000 to boost Wooden.
    Mathew Miranda June 4, Sacbee.com, 4 June 2026
Verb
  • Hennepin County commissioners plan to appoint an outside board of experts in finances, policy and lawmaking to support the CEO and staff.
    Susan-Elizabeth Littlefield, CBS News, 9 June 2026
  • That same fan said he’s lived in Kansas City for the last 10 years and plans to see at least one World Cup game that Algeria is in.
    Shreyas Laddha, Kansas City Star, 9 June 2026
Noun
  • While much attention since the fire has focused on rebuilding physical structures, Nemecek said preserving the ranch’s purpose is equally important.
    Daily News, Daily News, 9 June 2026
  • And yet, while the animals in these stories are sacrificed to selfish purpose and whim, the human characters are astonished and haunted by them.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 9 June 2026
Verb
  • Junior Grace Simmons escaped an early jam to set the tone for a low-scoring complete game from the circle, and Aniyah Bailey had a birthday to remember by anchoring the team’s contagious offensive showing with two doubles and five RBI in a 3-for-4 day.
    Tom Mulherin, Boston Herald, 11 June 2026
  • At the event in 2024, Miami Host Committee co-chair Rodney Barreto acknowledged that FIFA has set extensive requirements but also expressed confidence in the local effort behind the tournament.
    Tyler Carmona, Miami Herald, 11 June 2026
Verb
  • Today, community leaders hope to transform the Jarratt House into a place where visitors and locals can learn about history of Pocahontas Island.
    USA TODAY Network, USA Today, 10 June 2026
  • Here, though, there’s still hope that Chile could advance to the final.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 10 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Aim.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aim. Accessed 12 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on aim

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

More from Merriam-Webster