a provisional target

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a provisional target" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a temporary or tentative goal that may be subject to change. Example: "Our team has set a provisional target for sales this quarter, which we will reassess in a month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

The Observer reported on Sunday that the US was considering a "provisional target" at Copenhagen.

The Guardian

Industry insiders believed EDF had set aside a provisional target of June due to an array of uncertainties involving the the UK government, China and Austria.

The Guardian - Business

The White House said on Wednesday that the president would present a provisional target at the Copenhagen summit meeting on climate next month to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The New York Times

"By announcing a provisional target, contingent on the support of Congress, the president has defined a path to an international agreement that challenges the developed and developing nations to fulfill their obligations," he said.

The New York Times

BEIJING — The Chinese government announced Thursday that it had set a target to slow the growth of its greenhouse gas emissions by 2020, a day after the Obama administration set a provisional target for reducing United States emissions.

The New York Times - Science

In July 2015, in advance of the 21st Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC in Paris, the Minister submitted New Zealand's intended nationally determined contribution (INDC)—and then subsequently a nationally determined contribution (NDC)—consistent with a "provisional target" of only 30% reduction from 2005 levels by 2030.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

In the Hull office, the advisers have not met their provisional targets.

The Guardian

Despite pleas from their European allies, the Americans flatly rejected the idea of setting even provisional targets for reductions in greenhouse gases.

The New York Times

The securities filing listed a provisional fund-raising target of $100 million, which is likely to change over time.

The New York Times

The U.S. has put forward a provisional emissions reduction target in the range of seventeen per cent below 2005 by 2020, and ultimately in line with U.S. energy and climate legislation.

The New Yorker

A provisional list of items being targeted ranges from steel to T-shirts, also including bed linen, chewing tobacco, cranberries and orange juice, among other products.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a provisional target", clearly state the conditions or factors that might cause it to change. This provides context and manages expectations effectively.

Common error

Avoid treating "a provisional target" as a fixed commitment. Ensure communication reflects its tentative nature to prevent misunderstandings if adjustments become necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a provisional target" functions as a noun phrase, where "provisional" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "target". It describes a goal or objective that is temporary or subject to change. As per Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a provisional target" refers to a goal or objective that is subject to change. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for various professional and academic contexts. It is often used to indicate that a target is not yet final and may be adjusted based on future developments. When using this phrase, it is beneficial to clarify the conditions under which the target might be revised to manage expectations effectively. While the phrase isn't very common, it appears frequently in reputable sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian, lending to its credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a tentative goal

Emphasizes the uncertainty and possibility of revision of the target.

an initial objective

Highlights that it is the starting point, subject to further adjustments.

a preliminary aim

Indicates that it's a first step before more concrete plans are made.

a projected target

Focuses on forecasting or estimating the target, suggesting potential inaccuracy.

a working objective

Suggests the target is subject to change as work progresses.

a planned target

Highlights the act of planning, but allows for changes as needed.

a short-term goal

Focuses on the limited timeframe associated with the target.

an interim goal

Highlights the target as a temporary measure before a final goal.

a trial target

Emphasizes the experimental nature and the likelihood of revisions.

a speculative objective

Indicates that the objective is based on predictions that may not be accurate.

FAQs

How can I use "a provisional target" in a sentence?

"A provisional target" is used to describe a goal that is subject to change. For example, "The company set "a provisional target" for sales, pending the results of the marketing campaign".

What is the difference between "a provisional target" and a final target?

"A provisional target" is a preliminary goal that may be adjusted, while a final target is a confirmed and fixed objective. The former is subject to change based on new information or circumstances, whereas the latter is considered definitive.

What can I say instead of "a provisional target"?

Alternatives to "a provisional target" include "a tentative goal", "an initial objective", or "a preliminary aim". These phrases all convey the idea of a target that is subject to change.

Is "a provisional target" formal or informal language?

"A provisional target" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, such as business reports, news articles, and academic papers. Its usage indicates a level of professionalism and precision.