an obvious target

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an obvious target" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something or someone that is easily identifiable as a target for criticism, attack, or focus. Example: "In the debate, the politician became an obvious target for the opposing party's attacks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Children are an obvious target.

The Economist

Public-sector pensions are an obvious target.

The Economist

"We are an obvious target.

The Guardian - Arts

Mendes was an obvious target.

The Guardian

She is, therefore, an obvious target.

The Guardian

The Big Bang is an obvious target.

The New York Times - Science

The Comanche was an obvious target.

The New York Times

The school system was an obvious target.

The Washington Post

Lightly used Sunday trains were an obvious target.

The Guardian - Opinion

That makes the federal government an obvious target.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

China, because of its vast foreign-exchange reserves, was an obvious target.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an obvious target", consider the connotations. It often implies vulnerability or negative attention. Choose a more neutral term like "focus area" if you want to avoid such implications.

Common error

Avoid using "an obvious target" in situations where it might sound insensitive or accusatory. For instance, instead of saying "the victim was an obvious target", try a more empathetic phrasing like "the victim was particularly vulnerable".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an obvious target" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it identifies something or someone easily singled out for attention, whether positive or negative. Examples show it being used to describe individuals, groups, or even abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an obvious target" is a common phrase used to describe someone or something easily identifiable as a target for a specific action, often negative. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. The phrase is prevalent in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. While grammatically sound, it's important to consider the potentially negative connotations of vulnerability when using this phrase. Alternatives like "clear objective" or "primary focus" might be more appropriate in certain situations to avoid unintended implications. When using this phrase it is important to consider the implications of the context and the impact it may have on the reader.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sitting duck

Conveys a sense of helplessness and imminent danger, implying the target is exposed and defenseless.

an easy mark

Stresses the vulnerability and lack of defense of the target, particularly in situations involving deception or exploitation.

the expected victim

Emphasizes inevitability and anticipation of harm or suffering, often due to systemic factors.

a clear objective

Emphasizes the clarity and straightforwardness of the goal, shifting focus from vulnerability to purpose.

a logical focus

Highlights the rationale and justification for directing attention or effort towards the target.

a prime candidate

Highlights suitability and eligibility, often in a competitive or desirable context.

an open invitation

Implies that the target willingly or unknowingly makes themselves susceptible to unwanted attention or action.

a natural choice

Suggests that the target is the most logical or appropriate option, based on inherent qualities or circumstances.

a likely prospect

Highlights the probability of someone or something being chosen or affected in a certain way.

a vulnerable point

Focuses on weakness and susceptibility to attack or damage, often in a strategic or defensive context.

FAQs

How can I use "an obvious target" in a sentence?

You can use "an obvious target" to describe someone or something that is easily chosen for criticism, attack, or attention. For example, "The company's poor customer service made them "an obvious target" for complaints".

What are some alternatives to saying "an obvious target"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a clear objective", "an easy mark", or "a sitting duck". Each carries slightly different connotations.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "an obvious target"?

It's appropriate when something or someone stands out as easily identifiable for a specific action or focus. However, be mindful of the negative connotations, especially in sensitive situations.

What's the difference between "an obvious target" and "a primary focus"?

"An obvious target" often implies vulnerability or negative attention, while "a primary focus" suggests a deliberate and strategic area of concentration. The former can be used when someone is being unfairly singled out, while the latter is neutral.