Overview
A target is anything toward which action, attention or measurement is directed. It can be a physical mark to hit in sport or shooting, an intended outcome in management, a selected audience in marketing, a software build result, a molecular site in medicine, or an object or location identified for military action. As a verb, to target means to select or direct resources, messages or force at a chosen focal point.
Common meanings and types
- Sporting/marking target: a board, disc or image used for scoring in archery, shooting, darts and similar activities.
- Goal or performance target: a measurable objective such as a sales target, quality standard or project milestone.
- Commercial brand: a major U.S. retail chain known for its bullseye logo and discount department stores.
- Military/strategic target: an object, location or system selected for action under rules of engagement and international law.
- Scientific and medical target: a molecule, cell type or physiological process chosen for intervention or measurement.
- Technical target: an output or platform in computing and engineering, for example a compilation target or deployment environment.
- Marketing target: a defined audience segment or buyer persona for advertising, product design and communication.
History and usage
The term has roots in medieval practice and evolved from objects used in combat training to abstract senses of aim and selection. Over time it acquired both literal and figurative uses across disciplines. Context determines whether a target is concrete (a bullseye) or abstract (a numeric goal or an audience profile).
Measurement, practice and concerns
Good targets are specific, measurable and time-bound when used for performance management; in science and medicine targets guide hypothesis and therapy design. Targeting raises legal and ethical issues: misplaced or overly narrow targets can lead to harm, bias or unintended consequences, and military and advertising targeting often trigger scrutiny about proportionality, privacy and fairness. Distinguishing a target from related concepts such as a goal, aim or objective depends on whether emphasis is on selection of a focal point or on a broader ambition.