lower target

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lower target" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to a goal or objective that is set at a reduced level compared to a previous target. Example: "In response to the market conditions, we have decided to set a lower target for our sales this quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Now there are doubts China can hit this year's lower target of around 7%.

The Guardian - Business

We keep the faith and retain the buy recommendation, albeit on a lower target price of 155p from 205p.

The Guardian - Business

Leading analysts have questioned whether the government can meet even the lower target using its Direct Action policy.

The Guardian

UBS gives a lower target at 1,250p, but it is a buy.

Independent

So the new, lower target still involves more than tripling current electricity generation from nuclear power.

The New York Times

Even if the lower target is met, that figure will come down only to 137 million.

Independent

The most famous exception is the lower target for light trucks, now 20.7 miles a gallon, compared with 27.5 for passenger cars.

The New York Times

Vince Cable, Lib Dem business secretary, has taken the unusual step of writing to Nick Clegg to call for a lower target.

The Guardian

And as with every other pledge on security and political progress in Iraq, American officials have failed spectacularly to achieve even that lower target.

The New York Times

But a lower target would imperil jobs and growth, said Andrew Raingold, executive director of the Aldersgate Group of more than 30 large businesses.

The Guardian

Reports suggest Japan plans to cut CO2 emissions by about 20% from 2013 levels by 2030 – a much lower target than other big developed economies.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lower target", ensure it's clear what the original target was and why the adjustment was made. Providing context enhances clarity and prevents misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "lower target" when you simply mean a "low target". "Lower target" implies a reduction from a previous goal, while "low target" describes a goal that is inherently less ambitious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lower target" functions as a noun phrase, where "lower" modifies the noun "target". It usually indicates a goal or objective that has been reduced or set at a less ambitious level. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "lower target" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for describing a reduced or less ambitious goal. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts, predominantly in news, scientific, and business domains. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to provide context about the original target and the reason for the downward adjustment. While similar phrases like "reduced objective" or "less ambitious goal" can be used, avoid confusing it with "low target", which simply describes a goal that is not very ambitious.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduced objective

Indicates a decrease in the intended goal or outcome.

decreased aim

Focuses on the reduction of the desired end result.

less ambitious goal

Emphasizes the diminished scope or difficulty of the target.

scaled-down target

Highlights the reduction in size or scope of the original goal.

revised downward goal

Specifically indicates a change to a less optimistic level.

eased objective

Suggests a relaxation or lessening of the stringency of the target.

attenuated purpose

Emphasizes the weakening or diminishing of the original intention.

tempered expectation

Highlights a moderation or reduction in anticipated outcomes.

limited scope objective

Focuses on restricting the breadth or extent of the goal.

modest target

Implies a more humble or restrained goal.

FAQs

How do I use "lower target" in a sentence?

Use "lower target" when referring to a goal that has been reduced from a previous, higher objective. For example, "Due to economic downturn, the company set a "lower target" for sales this quarter".

What can I say instead of "lower target"?

You can use alternatives like "reduced objective", "less ambitious goal", or "scaled-down target" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "lower target" and "low target"?

"Lower target" implies a reduction from a previous, higher goal. "Low target" simply describes a goal that is not very ambitious, without necessarily implying a prior reduction. The two terms are not always interchangeable.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "lower target"?

The phrase "lower target" is appropriate when discussing adjustments to previously set goals, indicating a downward revision due to factors like feasibility, resource constraints, or changing circumstances. Avoid using it if you simply want to describe a goal that is inherently not very ambitious.