How Do You Spell ON TARGET?

Pronunciation: [ˌɒn tˈɑːɡɪt] (IPA)

The phrase "on target" means to be accurate or to hit the desired goal. The spelling of the word "on" is straightforward, with the phonetic transcription being /ɒn/ or /ɑn/. However, the spelling of "target" might seem a bit tricky. The IPA phonetic transcription of "target" is /ˈtɑːɡɪt/. It has a silent "g" and an "ar" that makes an "ah" sound. Learning the correct spelling and pronunciation of "on target" can greatly improve one's communication skills.

ON TARGET Meaning and Definition

1. On target refers to being accurate, precise, or correct in achieving a goal, objective, or aim. It implies the ability to hit or reach a specific target with precision and efficiency.

   In a literal sense, being on target can relate to activities such as archery or shooting, where the goal is to accurately hit the intended mark. Similarly, in sports such as soccer or basketball, being on target denotes successfully aiming a shot towards the goal or basket.

   However, the phrase extends beyond the literal realm and is often used figuratively to describe situations where someone is making progress towards their intended outcome. It suggests that the actions, strategies, or plans being employed are effective and well-aligned with the desired objective.

   In business, for example, a project or a marketing campaign can be considered on target if it is meeting its milestones, achieving expected results, or staying within allocated timeframes and budgets. In personal development, someone may be considered on target if they are successfully working towards their career goals or pursuing a specific life ambition.

   Being on target implies a sense of focus, precision, and effectiveness. It signifies that someone is following the right path, making proper adjustments, utilizing the right tools or strategies, and ultimately moving towards the desired outcome in a confident and intentional manner.

Common Misspellings for ON TARGET

• on-targer
• on-targhet
• on-targert
• on-targed
• on taraget
• on targit
• on targate
• on targote

Etymology of ON TARGET

The phrase "on target" is derived from the field of archery. The etymology can be traced back to the Middle English word "target", meaning a shield used for practice in war or specifically a circular object used in archery as a goal. The word "target" itself comes from the Old French word "targette", which means small shield or little cover.

In archery, when an archer accurately hit the target, it was considered successful and on the target. This concept of hitting the target precisely and accurately was later extended to metaphorically describe success and correctness in a broader sense. Over time, the phrase "on target" became commonly used to signify that something is accurate, precisely aimed, or hitting the intended goal.

Idioms with the word ON TARGET

• (right) on target The idiom "(right) on target" means to be precisely accurate, exact, or correct in terms of aim, goal, objective, or prediction. It refers to something being achieved or accomplished exactly as planned or expected.
• dead on target The idiom "dead on target" means to be completely accurate, precise, or correct about something. It refers to hitting the intended mark with perfect aim or accuracy.
• on target The idiom "on target" means to be progressing as planned or expected, to be focused and accurate in achieving a goal or objective.