on target

1 of 2

phrase

Synonyms of on targetnext
: precisely correct or valid especially in interpreting or addressing a problem or vital issue

on-target

2 of 2

adjective

on-tar·​get ˈän-ˈtär-gət How to pronounce on-target (audio)
ˈȯn-
: exactly appropriate : accurate
on-target advice

Synonyms of on target

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Adjective

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Examples of on target in a Sentence

Adjective an economic forecast for three percent growth that turned out to be entirely on-target
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Phrase
In total, the team in yellow took 20 shots, eight of which were on target. — Daniel Sperry, Kansas City Star, 4 July 2026 Colombia’s 79 shots ranked second in the tournament through the first two rounds and its 28 shots on target was tied for third, but only five of those shots found the back of the net. — Kevin Baxter, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026
Adjective
Drones and buoy cameras recorded live views of the on-target splashdown. — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 23 May 2026 The hubbub gives credence to the loudest — and most on-target? — Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 20 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for on target

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1967, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of on target was in 1967

Rhymes for on target

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Browse Nearby Words

on tap
on target
on-target
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“On target.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20target. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Copy Citation

Kids Definition

on-target

adjective
on-tar·​get
ˈȯn-ˈtär-gət, 
ˈän-
: just right : accurate
gave him on-target advice
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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