a great aim

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a great aim" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a significant goal or objective that one aspires to achieve. Example: "Her dedication to environmental conservation is driven by a great aim to protect our planet for future generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

I'm not sure organic is totally achievable, but it is a great aim.

Independent

But it's always been a great aim since I've been here, to play for England".

Independent

A new phone at no extra charge and a great AIM conversation with Consumerist's Ben Popken.

TechCrunch

The England striker is 42 goals shy of surpassing Charlton's record total of 249 goals for United and also trails Charlton's record of 49 England goals by 11. "It is a great aim for myself to try and get Sir Bobby's record, both at club and international level," said Rooney.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

This serves a greater aim of terrorising its enemies through provocation of irrational fear – which is especially prevalent when there is a sense that the threat is ubiquitous.

The Guardian

"This work," Byrne continues, "has a greater aim than mere illustration; we do not introduce colors for the purpose of entertainment, or to amuse by certain combinations of tint and form, but to assist the mind in its researches after truth, to increase the facilities of instruction and to diffuse permanent knowledge".

The New York Times - Books

It was his first run-in with Mr Wong, who is now rallying crowds for a greater aim - universal suffrage.

BBC

It would not take a great arm or superb aim to hit the portrait of Mr. Karzai: the square is not large, and the weathered picture — showing the president in a traditional turban, his face calm and composed — stands about 9 feet high and 15 feet wide on the side of a building where it was hung ahead of the 2009 election.

The New York Times

The great aim was a restoration of the prewar gold standard.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He saw himself as an enabler, quoting Herbert Spencer: "The great aim of education is not knowledge but action".

The Guardian - Books

"Portugal has succeeded in its great aim," said Ronaldo, the man of the match.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a great aim", ensure it is followed by a clear articulation of the specific goal. This provides context and enhances clarity for the reader or listener.

Common error

Avoid using "a great aim" for trivial or easily achievable objectives. Reserve it for goals that genuinely represent a significant challenge or aspiration to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a great aim" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It describes a significant objective or goal that someone intends to achieve.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a great aim" describes a significant objective or aspiration. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and usable. While grammatically sound, it is relatively rare, primarily appearing in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure the associated goal is clearly defined and substantial. Alternatives such as "a significant goal" or "a noble purpose" can provide similar meanings while adjusting the specific nuance. Consider the context and tone to ensure appropriateness, reserving it for genuinely important aspirations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant goal

This alternative replaces "great" with "significant", emphasizing the importance of the objective.

a major objective

This alternative underscores the importance and scale of the goal.

a worthy objective

This alternative emphasizes the value and merit of the aim, suggesting it is deserving of effort.

a key aspiration

This alternative highlights the long-term and aspirational nature of the aim.

a noble purpose

This alternative suggests a moral or ethical dimension to the aim, adding a sense of high-mindedness.

a primary ambition

This alternative focuses on the personal desire and drive behind the aim, making it a central focus.

a central intent

This alternative emphasizes the deliberate and focused nature of the aim.

an ambitious target

This alternative highlights the challenging nature of the aim, focusing on the effort required to achieve it.

a compelling vision

This alternative emphasizes the inspirational and forward-looking nature of the aim.

a lofty ideal

This alternative suggests the aim is exceptionally high and perhaps difficult to reach, focusing on its aspirational quality.

FAQs

How can I use "a great aim" in a sentence?

You can use "a great aim" to describe a significant goal or objective. For example, "His "a great aim" is to eradicate poverty in his community".

What are some alternatives to "a great aim"?

Alternatives to "a great aim" include "a significant goal", "a noble purpose", or "an ambitious target", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a great aim" in formal writing?

Yes, "a great aim" is generally appropriate for formal writing, particularly when discussing important objectives or aspirations. However, ensure it aligns with the tone and context of your writing.

What's the difference between "a great aim" and "a good aim"?

"A great aim" suggests a more significant or ambitious goal compared to "a good aim". While both are positive, ""a great aim"" implies a higher level of importance or challenge.