overarching goal

USAGE SUMMARY

"overarching goal" is an expression that is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a broad, general purpose or ambition in any situation, particularly when discussing plans, strategies, and courses of action. For example, "Our overarching goal is to expand our business operations into new markets."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But the chefs' overarching goal is bigger than one beast.

The New York Times - Food

Then make it a SMART launch schedule by adding one overarching goal to each quarter.

Forbes

Maybe it's time reconsider the steps you're taking to achieve your overarching goal.

Forbes

An opportunity to try new mechanisms, techniques and strategies to execute on my overarching goal.

Huffington Post

Herein we report our preliminary discovery efforts towards this overarching goal.

Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry

But shouldn't the overarching goal be safety and structural integrity?

The New York Times

The overarching goal is as basic as it is fundamental.

The New York Times

The overarching goal of eco-design is sustainable development.

Environmentally Compatible Food Packaging

They will all add up to an overarching goal.

Nature

The overarching goal is to protect borrowers against lender abuses.

The Washington Post

My overarching goal is to become a successful independent researcher.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When defining your "overarching goal", ensure it is broad enough to encompass various strategies, but specific enough to provide clear direction. Use it as a reference point to align all related activities.

Common error

Avoid mistaking tactical objectives for the "overarching goal". Tactical objectives are specific, measurable steps that contribute to achieving the broader, more strategic overarching goal. Ensure each objective clearly supports the overarching goal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overarching goal" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates it's used to describe a primary aim or objective. It is used to define the key purpose, intention or desired outcome that guides actions and decisions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "overarching goal" is a frequently used and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a primary objective or aim. As supported by Ludwig, it commonly appears in news media, scientific publications, and formal business documents, indicating a neutral to formal register. To enhance clarity in writing, it's essential to distinguish between the "overarching goal" and specific objectives. Related phrases include "primary objective" and "main purpose", which can be used for variety while maintaining semantic similarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary objective

Focuses on the main aim, emphasizing its importance.

principal aim

Highlights the chief purpose, suggesting a structured approach.

main purpose

Emphasizes the core reason or intention behind an action.

central focus

Indicates the key area of attention or effort.

ultimate aim

Stresses the final, long-term target to be achieved.

chief objective

Highlights the most important goal to pursue.

key target

Suggests a specific, measurable outcome to be reached.

core mission

Implies a fundamental and essential purpose.

fundamental purpose

Points to the basic reason or intention.

grand design

Suggests a large-scale, ambitious objective.

FAQs

How can I effectively define my "overarching goal"?

Start by identifying the core problem you're trying to solve or the ultimate outcome you wish to achieve. Frame it as a broad, aspirational statement that guides all subsequent actions and decisions.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "overarching goal"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "primary objective", "main purpose", or "ultimate aim".

How does an "overarching goal" differ from a specific objective?

An "overarching goal" is a broad, long-term aspiration, while a specific objective is a measurable step taken to achieve that goal. Objectives should directly contribute to the overarching goal.

Why is it important to have an "overarching goal"?

Having an "overarching goal" provides a clear sense of direction, aligns efforts, and ensures that all activities contribute to a unified vision. It helps in prioritizing tasks and making strategic decisions.