student asking question

What's the difference between "goal" and "objective"? Are they always interchangeable?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

The words "goal" and "objective" are often confused with each other. They both describe things that a person may want to achieve or attain but they are not always interchangeable as they somethings can mean different things. Both words speak about the desired outcome of some actions that a person has to do. "Goals" are generally for an achievement or accomplishment for which certain efforts are put. "Objectives" are specific targets within the general "goal". "Objectives" are also often time-related and short term. While " goals are more long term. In this game the long-term "goal" is to kill everyone and not be caught. So, your short-term "objectives" might be to be sneaky and careful. Ex: I want to achieve success in the field of fashion and design things no one has ever designed before. (This is a goal). Ex: I want to complete the sketches for my design project by the end of the month. (This is an objective.)

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