a target drawn on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a target drawn on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is metaphorically or literally indicating a focus or goal, often implying that someone is being singled out or marked for attention. Example: "After the recent scandal, the politician felt like there was a target drawn on his back, making him more cautious in public appearances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The Indianapolis Star apologized to Duke University after some of Friday's editions included an illustration of Coach Mike Krzyzewski with horns and a target drawn on his head.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Participants were administered a pen-and-paper version of the Peters et al. (1995) redrawing of the Vandenberg & Kuse Mental Rotation Test, consisting of 24 questions each showing several 2-D drawings of a 3-D block object, and asking participants to choose which two out of the four drawings on the right could be rotated to match the target drawing on the left.

Acta Psychologica

In 2012, the Obama campaign used very sophisticated research and targeting drawing on psychology, marketing, targeting, new media and various other quantitative methodologies.

Huffington Post

It does include Ellen Hill's small coffin covered in miniature $50 bills and Cheryl Edward's target, drawn with bullet shells on a painted American flag.

The Washington Post

With five minutes left Touré finally had a shot on target, drawing a fine save from Buffon.

The Guardian - Sport

The main modification of the TMT, relative to the 2008 study by Persad et al, is that our targets were drawn on a removable cloth support of five-meter length, which covered the eight-meter electronic walkway.

Clinical interventions in aging

Targeting a red cross drawn on the roof of a hospital is an unacceptable, cowardly and sadly too-frequent accident.

The Guardian - Opinion

The alignment of the virtual PCR product on the target transcript is drawn on an HTML5 canvas using JavaScript.

G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics

Mike and Rosie Carter, 56 and 57, who live just outside Stowmarket, cite previous attempts to close the town's crossings and believe it to be on a target list drawn up by the taskforce that developed the Norwich in 90 plans.

The Guardian

For each participant, seed and target ROIs were drawn on the right and left hemispheres, in native space, according to a set protocol based on Liégeois et al. (2013).

Brain and Language

Although the SNP will not be drawn on a target date for independence, there will be a push to achieve it before the symbolically important date of 2007, exactly 300 years after Scotland lost its independence.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a target drawn on" when you want to convey a sense of vulnerability or being singled out, particularly in contexts where there is a perceived threat or risk.

Common error

Avoid using "a target drawn on" in situations where the focus is simply on attention or designation without any negative implications. Opt for more neutral alternatives like "a focus directed at" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a target drawn on" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a predicate nominative or object of a preposition. It describes the state of being marked or designated, usually implying vulnerability or increased scrutiny. As Ludwig AI states, it indicates a focus or goal.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

25%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a target drawn on" is a versatile expression used to describe the state of being singled out, typically with negative connotations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it signifies a focus, often implying vulnerability or scrutiny. While grammatically correct and frequently employed in various contexts, including news, scientific, and academic settings, it's crucial to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse in neutral situations. Understanding its nuances and employing it appropriately will enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the crosshairs

A more aggressive and threatening way of saying "a target drawn on", suggesting imminent danger or attack.

painted with a bullseye

A more vivid and figurative way of saying "a target drawn on", implying that someone or something is an obvious and easy target.

a mark placed on

Replaces "target" with a more generic term, suggesting a focus or designation but without the same implication of vulnerability.

a focus directed at

Shifts the emphasis from a physical target to a more abstract focus or attention, suitable for situations where the attention is not necessarily hostile.

singled out for attention

Highlights the act of being chosen or selected, emphasizing the distinction from others rather than the potential for harm.

marked for scrutiny

Specifically implies that someone or something is under close observation, often with the implication of potential judgment or criticism.

under the spotlight

Suggests intense public attention or scrutiny, often implying a loss of privacy or anonymity.

designated for action

Suggests that someone or something has been selected for a particular task or purpose, often with an official or formal connotation.

labeled as a priority

Implies that something has been officially designated as important and requiring immediate action.

set up as a goal

Emphasizes the aspirational nature of "a target drawn on", focusing on its purpose as a goal to be achieved.

FAQs

How can I use "a target drawn on" in a sentence?

You can use "a target drawn on" to describe someone or something that is being singled out, often for negative attention. For example: "After the article was published, he felt like "a target drawn on" his back."

What does it mean to have "a target drawn on" your back?

Having "a target drawn on" your back means that you are being watched or scrutinized, often because of something you did or said. It implies vulnerability and a potential for negative consequences.

What are some alternatives to saying "a target drawn on"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a mark placed on", "singled out for attention", or "in the crosshairs".

Is it always negative to have "a target drawn on"?

While generally negative, the phrase can sometimes be used figuratively to describe someone who is the center of attention or the object of desire, although this usage is less common.