English Reference
verb · noun · adjective

targeting

v. · n. · adj.
US /ˈtɑɹɡətɪŋ/ UK /tˈɑːɡɪtɪŋ/ tar·get·ing

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.choosing a specific group of people to sell something to or to influence.

    v.the act of directing advertising, criticism, or information at a specific audience or demographic.

    Simple

    The company is targeting young families with its new line of healthy snacks.

    In context

    By targeting high-income professionals in urban areas, the marketing campaign achieved a significantly higher conversion rate than previous broad-spectrum efforts.

    Usage

    Often used in the continuous tense with a direct object.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.the process of selecting a goal or a person to attack or help.

    n.the identification and selection of specific objects or individuals for action, whether military, social, or commercial.

    Simple

    The targeting of innocent civilians during the conflict was condemned by the world.

    In context

    Precise targeting is essential in modern charity work to ensure that resources reach the most vulnerable populations effectively.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    adj.describing how proteins move to the right place in a cell.

    adj.relating to the mechanisms by which a cell directs a protein to its appropriate intracellular or extracellular destination.

    Simple

    The scientist studied the protein targeting process to understand how cells stay healthy.

    In context

    Defects in the protein targeting pathway can lead to a variety of metabolic disorders as essential enzymes fail to reach the mitochondria.

    Usage

    Usually appears immediately before the noun it modifies.

Usage targeting civilians

Research suggests strength exercises targeting the quadriceps , a group of muscles at the front of the thigh, are particularly effective at reducing joint pain .

ScienceDaily· 16 Aug 2026

It also said “Israeli warplanes carried out a series of airstrikes targeting the Ali al-Taher ridge”.

The Guardian· 15 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated