What are the definitions of “aim at”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To target.
The magazine is AIMED AT teenagers.
- 2Intend to achieve.
They're AIMING AT reducing costs by ten percent.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “aim at”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb aim at is to target or focus on something or someone. It can be used to describe the target audience of a product, service, or message, or to express the intention to achieve a specific goal.
What are the different verb forms of “aim at”?
| Root Verb | aim at |
| Third Person Singular Present | aims at |
| Present Participle | aiming at |
| Simple Past | aimed at |
| Past Participle | aimed at |
Example
The advertisement aims at attracting young customers.
Example
She aims at improving her English skills.
Example
He is aiming at getting a promotion this year.
Example
The campaign aimed at raising awareness about climate change.
Example
The project was aimed at helping the local community.
What kind of phrasal verb is “aim at”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“aim at” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The new app aims at making life easier for busy parents.
Example
The company aims at increasing its market share.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“aim at” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The new app aims at making life easier for busy parents.
Example
The company aims at increasing its market share.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “aim at”?
Good things to know
Does “aim at” have an informal or formal tone?
Aim at is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings such as business meetings, academic discussions, or presentations.
