seek a target

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seek a target" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is looking for a specific goal, objective, or person to focus on. Example: "In order to improve our marketing strategy, we need to seek a target audience that aligns with our brand values."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Another technology, precision-guided warheads, or PGRVs, would actively seek a target, then, using flight controls, actually "fly out" reentry errors.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Like precision missiles, they seek a target and explode, causing maximum damage, only in the vicinity of the base.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Some were looking for solidarity in their grief; others sought a target for their rage.

The New Yorker

The drunk in the pub seeking a target for his ire or his fists, the frustrated woman on a crowded bus, are going to feel they have been given permission to make an immigrant, or perceived immigrant, their target.

The Guardian

The craving for vengeance after Sept. 11, vented in songs like Toby Keith's "Courtesy of the Red White and Blue (The Angry American)," is still seeking a target.

The New York Times - Arts

In the last few years we have sought a target of the phototropin-mediated signal which initiates the chloroplast redistribution.

BMC Plant Biology

The respective insulin dose was estimated according to standard treatment recommendations and up-titrated according to a forced titration schedule (14), seeking a target fasting glucose level of <100 mg/dL.

Diabetes Care

The death of Arafat in 2004 forced Mr Barak to seek a new target for his saying.

BBC

GCHQ says it can also seek a sensitive targeting authority (STA), which allows it snoop on any Briton "anywhere in the world" or any foreign national located in the UK.

The Guardian

It can seek out a target gene and make precise changes to the DNA code.

The Guardian

We were seeking a higher target".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seek a target", ensure the context clearly defines what kind of target is being sought, whether it's a goal, an objective, or a person. Clarity enhances the impact of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "seek a target" without specifying what kind of target is being sought. Vague language diminishes clarity and can confuse the reader. For example, instead of saying "the company seeks a target", specify "the company seeks a target market" or "the company seeks a target for acquisition".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seek a target" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action. According to Ludwig AI, it describes the act of looking for or attempting to find a specific goal, objective, or entity. Examples show its use in contexts ranging from military technology to human behavior.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

35%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seek a target" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of actively searching for a specific goal or objective. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, it's important to consider the context to ensure clarity and precision. Predominantly found in news and scientific sources, the phrase maintains a neutral register. Alternatives such as "identify an objective" or "pursue a goal" may offer nuanced variations depending on the intended meaning. Remember to specify the nature of the target to enhance clarity and avoid vagueness in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

identify an objective

Focuses on the process of pinpointing a specific objective or goal.

pursue a goal

Emphasizes the act of striving towards a particular goal or aim.

find a focus

Highlights the process of discovering a central point of concentration.

determine a purpose

Focuses on establishing a reason or intention for action.

locate an aim

Emphasizes the act of finding a specific target or goal to achieve.

detect an objective

Emphasizes uncovering or noticing an objective.

hunt for an objective

Implies a vigorous search for an objective.

search for a goal

Indicates a general exploration aimed at finding a goal.

pinpoint an aim

Focuses on precisely identifying a target or goal.

discover an objective

Highlights the act of finding something previously unknown.

FAQs

How can I use "seek a target" in a sentence?

You can use "seek a target" to describe the act of looking for a specific goal, objective, or recipient of an action. For example, "The missile systems "seek a target" and explode near the base".

What are some alternatives to "seek a target"?

Some alternatives include "identify an objective", "pursue a goal", or "find a focus", depending on the context.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "seek a target"?

It is appropriate to use "seek a target" in contexts where you are describing the active search for a specific goal or objective, whether in a literal or figurative sense. For example, it can refer to missiles "seeking a target" or a person "seeking a target" for their anger.

How does "seek a target" differ from "identify a target"?

"Seek a target" implies an active search or pursuit, while "identify a target" suggests that the target has already been located and is being recognized or specified.