Translation guide
To direct effort toward a goal, target, or desired outcome. Covers literal aiming (weapons, sports) and figurative aiming (goals, standards, audiences).
To set a goal and work toward it, such as a score, qualification, or personal milestone.
The most common and versatile way to say 'aim for' a goal. Used for concrete and abstract targets.
彼は医者を目指している。
He is aiming to become a doctor.
We are aiming for the sales target.
Literally 'make ~ a goal'. Slightly more formal and explicit than 目指す.
今年はTOEIC900点を目標にしています。
This year I'm aiming for a TOEIC score of 900.
Implies a more strategic or opportunistic aim, like 'target' or 'go after'. Can sound calculated.
彼は一等賞を狙っている。
He is aiming for first prize.
To physically point a gun, bow, or thrown object at a target.
The standard verb for aiming a weapon or throw. Can be used for cameras and other directed actions.
彼は的に向かって矢を狙った。
He aimed the arrow at the target.
銃を頭に狙うな。
Don't aim the gun at the head.
Technical term for 'adjust the sights on'. Used in military or precision shooting contexts.
スナイパーは標的に照準を合わせた。
The sniper aimed at the target.
To create something with a particular group of people or use case in mind.
Means 'intended for' or 'geared toward'. Very common for products, services, and content.
この本は子供向けです。
This book is aimed at children.
そのアプリは初心者向けに作られている。
That app is aimed at beginners.
More formal, often used in official descriptions or reports. 'Targeting ~'.
このキャンペーンは若者を対象としています。
This campaign is aimed at young people.
To try to reach a high level of quality, perfection, or an abstract ideal.
Also used for abstract ideals like perfection or happiness.
私たちは完璧を目指しています。
We are aiming for perfection.
Means 'pursue' or 'strive for', often used for ideals, happiness, or truth. More intense than 目指す.
彼は幸福を追求している。
He is aiming for happiness.
目指す (mezasu) is a general 'aim for' a goal or destination, often with a sense of direction or aspiration. 狙う (nerau) is more about targeting a specific object or opportunity, often with a strategic or opportunistic nuance. Use 目指す for long-term goals and 狙う for concrete targets you want to hit or obtain.
彼は金メダルを目指している。
He is aiming for the gold medal (as a career goal).
彼は金メダルを狙っている。
He is aiming for the gold medal (in this competition).
狙う can sound too calculated or predatory for abstract ideals like world peace or happiness. Use 目指す or 追求する instead.
世界平和を目指す。
Aim for world peace.