aim at — to point or direct a weapon or object toward a target
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to point or direct a weapon or object toward a target
Pronunciation (IPA): /eɪm æt/
Example Sentences
- My cat always aims at the red dot but never catches it - such is the tragedy of laser pointers.
- Students should aim at understanding concepts, not just memorizing facts.
- He aimed at becoming a chef, but ended up burning water instead.
aim at
VERB[/eɪm æt/]
to point or direct a weapon or object toward a target
The archer carefully aimed at the center of the target before releasing the arrow.
The scientist aimed at finding a cure after years of research. (AIM AT = POINT AT THE TARGET → focus on a specific target or goal.)
The athlete aimed at the championship, claimed that hard work mattered most, and earned worldwide acclaim.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The verb 'aim' derives from Old French 'esmer', which evolved from Latin 'aestimare' (to estimate, evaluate). The word originally meant 'to estimate or assess', gradually shifting to mean 'to direct toward a goal' by the 14th century.
Breakdown
Old French 'esmer' → Middle English 'aimen' → Modern English 'aim'. The morphological development shows semantic shift from 'estimate' (Latin aestimare: aestim- (value) + -are (infinitive suffix)) to 'direct at a target'.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My cat always aims at the red dot but never catches it - such is the tragedy of laser pointers.”
“Students should aim at understanding concepts, not just memorizing facts.”
“He aimed at becoming a chef, but ended up burning water instead.”
“The company aims at expanding its market share in Asia.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.