Overarching goal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Overarching goal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a primary or overarching objective that encompasses other specific goals or aims within a project or initiative. Example: "The overarching goal of our research is to improve public health outcomes through innovative solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But the chefs' overarching goal is bigger than one beast.

The New York Times - Food

Then make it a SMART launch schedule by adding one overarching goal to each quarter.

Forbes

Maybe it's time reconsider the steps you're taking to achieve your overarching goal.

Forbes

An opportunity to try new mechanisms, techniques and strategies to execute on my overarching goal.

Huffington Post

Herein we report our preliminary discovery efforts towards this overarching goal.

Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry

But shouldn't the overarching goal be safety and structural integrity?

The New York Times

The overarching goal is as basic as it is fundamental.

The New York Times

The overarching goal of eco-design is sustainable development.

Environmentally Compatible Food Packaging

They will all add up to an overarching goal.

Nature

The overarching goal is to protect borrowers against lender abuses.

The Washington Post

My overarching goal is to become a successful independent researcher.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "overarching goal" to clearly define the primary objective that unifies various efforts or sub-goals within a larger project or strategy.

Common error

Avoid using "overarching goal" when referring to smaller, individual objectives. Reserve it for the single, all-encompassing aim that guides all other activities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overarching goal" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the primary and most important objective or aim. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and usable in English. Examples show its use in diverse contexts, emphasizing its role as a central guiding principle.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "overarching goal" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a primary objective, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It appears most commonly in news, science, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it truly represents the main, unifying objective and not just a specific task. Alternatives like ""primary objective"" or "main aim" can be used for variety. Proper use enhances clarity and strategic focus in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Primary objective

This alternative is more direct and emphasizes the main objective without additional nuances.

Main aim

This alternative replaces "goal" with "aim", offering a simpler and more straightforward expression.

Central purpose

This alternative emphasizes the core reason or intention behind an action or plan.

Principal target

This alternative focuses on the key target or result to be achieved.

Ultimate objective

This alternative stresses the final or long-term aim.

Overriding ambition

This alternative shifts the focus to a strong desire or aspiration that takes precedence.

Grand design

This alternative suggests a comprehensive and ambitious plan or scheme.

Key focus

This alternative highlights the main area of attention or emphasis.

Core mission

This alternative emphasizes the fundamental purpose or task of an organization or project.

Strategic intent

This alternative emphasizes a planned set of actions designed to achieve a long-term aim.

FAQs

How do I use "overarching goal" in a sentence?

You can use "overarching goal" to describe the main objective of a project, strategy, or initiative. For example, "The "primary objective" of the company is to increase market share."

What can I say instead of "overarching goal"?

You can use alternatives like "main aim", ""primary objective"", or "central purpose" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "overarching goal" or "overreaching goal"?

"Overarching goal" is the correct term to describe a primary objective. "Overreaching goal" implies setting an unrealistic or excessively ambitious target.

What's the difference between "overarching goal" and "specific objectives"?

The "overarching goal" is the main, all-encompassing aim, while "specific objectives" are the smaller, measurable steps taken to achieve that goal. The "principal target" provides direction, and the specific objectives provide the roadmap.