target dates

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "target dates" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to specific deadlines or timeframes for achieving goals or completing tasks. Example: "We need to establish target dates for each phase of the project to ensure timely completion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

But target dates have slipped repeatedly.

The New York Times

Previous target dates have been self-imposed.

The Guardian

"The target dates haven't changed," Mr. Suarez said.

The New York Times

Several of the promised initiatives were accompanied by target dates.

The Guardian

With funding still uncertain, he refuses to put precise target dates on its completion.

The Guardian

France and Germany had resisted fixed target dates, but relented here.

The New York Times

Many details are still to be concluded; there are no specified target dates.

The New York Times

It has not been swift; several target dates for eradication have come and gone.

The New York Times - Health

Some funds have target dates when they will end, and others aim to pay indefinitely.

The New York Times

Other cities, including Manchester and Glasgow, have target dates of 2025.

The Guardian

One would be to offer target dates for the admission of specific countries.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When setting "target dates", ensure they are realistic and achievable to maintain project momentum and avoid discouragement. Break down larger goals into smaller tasks with corresponding "target dates".

Common error

Avoid setting "target dates" that are unrealistically aggressive. Consistently missing deadlines can erode trust and negatively impact team morale. Always factor in potential delays and unexpected challenges when establishing timelines.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "target dates" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to specify particular points in time set for the achievement of goals or the completion of tasks. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's acceptability and common usage across various contexts, as seen in the numerous examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "target dates" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that refers to specific deadlines or timeframes for achieving goals. As Ludwig AI indicates, its purpose is to clearly communicate planned timelines, primarily within news, scientific, and formal business settings. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, its usage emphasizes the importance of planning and accountability. For those seeking alternatives, consider using "goal dates" or "deadline dates". To ensure effective use, always set realistic timelines and communicate any potential delays promptly. This ensures project momentum and prevents frustration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

goal dates

Replaces "target" with "goal", emphasizing the objective to be achieved by the specified time.

deadline dates

Replaces "target" with "deadline", focusing on the mandatory nature of the dates.

scheduled dates

Emphasizes the planned nature of the dates, focusing on their position in a schedule.

projected dates

Highlights that the dates are estimates or forecasts for when something will occur.

estimated completion dates

Specifies that the dates refer to the anticipated time of finishing a task or project.

anticipated dates

Focuses on the expectation that something will happen on those dates.

planned deadlines

Combines the idea of planning with the sense of a mandatory completion time.

intended dates

Highlights that these dates represent what is aimed for or desired.

milestone dates

Indicates that the dates mark significant progress points in a project or plan.

timeframe for completion

Shifts from specific dates to a broader range within which something is expected to finish.

FAQs

How are "target dates" used in project management?

"Target dates" are essential for setting milestones and deadlines in project management. They help to track progress, allocate resources effectively, and ensure timely completion of project tasks. Alternatives include "goal dates" or "deadline dates".

What's the difference between "target dates" and "estimated dates"?

"Target dates" are planned or scheduled dates for completion, while "estimated dates" are predictions or forecasts. "Estimated dates" might be used when there's uncertainty, whereas "target dates" imply a firm commitment to meeting a specific timeline. Consider using "projected dates" as a synonym for estimated dates.

How do you determine realistic "target dates"?

Realistic "target dates" are determined by carefully assessing the scope of work, available resources, potential risks, and dependencies. It's important to involve team members in the planning process to gain their insights and ensure buy-in. Alternatives include "intended dates" or "anticipated dates".

What should I do if I can't meet my "target dates"?

If you can't meet your "target dates", communicate the issue promptly to stakeholders, explain the reasons for the delay, and propose a revised timeline. It's also important to identify and address any underlying issues that contributed to the delay. Discussing "revised deadlines" as soon as possible helps maintain transparency and manages expectations.