but to target

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but to target" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing intentions or objectives, particularly in contexts related to marketing, strategy, or focus. Example: "Our goal is to increase brand awareness, but to target specific demographics effectively, we need to refine our approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

The Russian president, Vladimir Putin, said yesterday that he would have no choice but to target Kiev if an American missile shield was deployed in Ukraine.

The Guardian

The idea is to give senior consultants an incentive to stay, but to target that incentive to those who are most profitable, rather than simply to those who are most senior.

The Economist

While the US has been reluctant in the past to use its airpower in support of Shia miltias, it appears they may have had no choice recently but to target Isis units engaged in fighting against the Iranian-backed irregulars.

Independent

Global Pulse, Mr. Kirkpatrick said, is exploring new frontiers in knowledge with its real-time tracking of what is happening to people, not to sell them something but to target development efforts.

The New York Times

The mood of relief quickly turned to defiance and glee as the president and his allies realized they could wield Barr's summary as a political cudgel, not just to inoculate themselves against other ongoing and future investigations, but to target Trump's perceived critics — ranging from the media to Democrats to the FBI.

The Washington Post

Western budgets are flat or shrinking: Britain's Foreign Office, which pays for some of the BBC's external services, faces a 25% cut.The right response to such challenges is not for Western countries to bin their broadcasts, but to target them better.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Brain-targeted chemical delivery systems (CDSs) represent rational drug design attempts not only to deliver but also to target drugs to their site of action.

Drug Discovery Today

The other big energy firms also offer similar schemes, but tend to target those on low incomes, as above.

The Guardian - Money

The company is initially focused on US farmers but plans to target markets in Brazil, Argentina, and Canada as well.

MIT Technology Review

Impact investing gives institutional investors the ability not just to avoid negative investments, but also to target positive investments.

Duke University

Both sport large touch-screens with sliding Qwerty keyboards, but appear to target different consumers (high-end versus entry level).

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but to target" to clearly signal a shift in strategy or intention, especially when contrasting a previous approach.

Common error

Avoid using "but to target" when there isn't a genuine contrast or shift in focus; ensure a clear distinction from the preceding idea is established.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but to target" functions as a purpose connector, linking a preceding statement with a specific intention or objective. As shown in Ludwig, it's often used to introduce a focused strategy or aim, contrasting with a broader goal.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Wiki

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but to target" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves as a purpose connector, signaling a specific intention or objective. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across various contexts. The phrase is commonly found in News & Media, Science and Formal & Business texts, with a neutral register. When using "but to target", ensure a clear contrast with the preceding idea. For alternative phrasing, consider "but to aim for" or "but to focus on". The phrase "but to target" is a valuable tool for writers aiming to express a strategic shift or refined objective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but to aim for

Replaces "target" with "aim for", suggesting a general direction rather than a specific point.

but to focus on

Substitutes "target" with "focus on", emphasizing concentration on a particular area.

but to concentrate on

Similar to "focus on", but implies a more intensive effort of concentration.

but to direct towards

Replaces "target" with "direct towards", suggesting guidance or channeling of resources.

but to gear towards

Indicates preparation or adjustment towards a specific goal.

but to orient towards

Focuses on aligning actions or strategies in a specific direction.

but to tailor for

Emphasizes customization or adaptation for a particular audience or purpose.

but to adapt for

Similar to "tailor for", but stresses the process of modification.

but to design for

Highlights the intention of creating something specifically for a certain use.

but to shape for

Suggests molding or forming something to fit a particular need or context.

FAQs

How can I use "but to target" in a sentence?

You can use "but to target" to introduce a specific focus or intention, often after stating a general aim. For example: "Our goal is to increase sales, but to target younger demographics effectively, we need a social media campaign."

What are some alternatives to "but to target"?

Alternatives include phrases like "but to aim for", "but to focus on", or "but to concentrate on", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a more formal way to say "but to target"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "but to direct efforts towards" or "but to orient strategies for". These alternatives offer a more professional tone.

What is the difference between "but to target" and "but to aim"?

"But to aim" implies a general direction or goal, while "but to target" suggests a more specific and precise objective. Targeting involves a more focused approach.