smaller targets

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "smaller targets" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to objectives or goals that are less ambitious or of lesser size compared to others. Example: "In order to achieve success, we should focus on smaller targets before tackling the larger ones."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Children, after all, make smaller targets.

The Guardian

Its wide parks and narrow bands of apartment-buildings offered smaller targets.

The New York Times

Since then the big brewers have picked off smaller targets around the world.

The Economist

Better yet, he can summon homing monkeys who will take out multiple smaller targets – useful for boss battles.

The Guardian - Tech

If Murdoch wants one last big deal, he may have to pay cash – that means smaller targets than Time Warner.

The Guardian - Business

He added that although home computers are smaller targets for hackers, few consumers take the kind of precautions to protect their personal PC's that companies like BigString do to ensure the safety of large-scale servers.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

But a smaller, targeted tax cut could indeed make sense.

The New York Times

It might have been because he deliberately aimed at a smaller target.

The New York Times - Arts

Leave the car, Lieutenant Graham said, and "you are just a smaller target".

The New York Times

Radio benefits of course from being a smaller target, and from attracting fewer political enemies.

The New York Times - Arts

The opposition leader said he did not "subscribe to the smaller target path of meaningless change".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When planning a project, start by identifying "smaller targets" that can be achieved quickly to build momentum and confidence.

Common error

Don't disregard "smaller targets" as insignificant. They provide opportunities for practice, refinement, and learning that contribute to success on a larger scale.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smaller targets" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "smaller" modifies "targets". It describes objectives, goals, or entities that are of reduced size, scope, or importance. As per Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "smaller targets" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that refers to objectives or entities that are reduced in size or scope. As highlighted by Ludwig, it is a versatile expression applicable across diverse fields, from news and media to science and business. When using the phrase, remember to focus on clarity and provide context to ensure that the intended meaning is effectively conveyed. Alternatives such as "minor objectives" or "bite-sized tasks" can be used to add variety to your writing. Keep in mind the importance of recognizing "smaller targets" as potentially stepping stones that contribute to greater success, and avoid dismissing them as insignificant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor objectives

Focuses specifically on objectives that are less significant.

lesser goals

Emphasizes that the goals are of lower importance or scale.

bite-sized tasks

Suggests that tasks are broken down into manageable portions.

achievable milestones

Highlights the attainability of specific points in a project timeline.

manageable objectives

Focuses on the ease with which the objectives can be handled or controlled.

limited scope projects

Indicates projects that are restricted in terms of breadth or complexity.

narrowed focus areas

Emphasizes a concentrated or restricted area of attention.

reduced scale targets

Highlights a decrease in the size or extent of the targets.

miniature goals

Suggests that the goals are very small or insignificant.

more easily attained goals

Focuses on goals that are simpler and quicker to reach.

FAQs

How can I use "smaller targets" in project management?

In project management, "smaller targets" represent manageable goals that contribute to the overall project success. Breaking down a project into "smaller targets" helps in tracking progress and maintaining motivation.

What are some alternatives to saying "smaller targets"?

You can use alternatives like "minor objectives", "lesser goals", or "bite-sized tasks" depending on the context.

Is it better to focus on "smaller targets" or larger goals?

It depends on the situation. "Smaller targets" can provide quick wins and maintain momentum, while larger goals provide a long-term vision. Often, breaking down larger goals into "smaller targets" is the most effective approach.

How do "smaller targets" relate to overall strategy?

"Smaller targets" often represent the tactical steps taken to achieve a larger strategic goal. They are the actionable components of a broader plan.