Goal

Definition

Goal is a noun that refers to an objective or target that a person or organization aims to achieve. In sports, it denotes the act of scoring points by putting the ball or object into a designated area. It can also refer to the designated area itself, such as the net in soccer.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡoʊl/
• Respelling: GOHL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡəʊl/
• Respelling: GOHL

Etymology

The word "goal" originates from Middle English "gol," which meant a boundary or limit. Its exact origin is uncertain but is thought to be derived from Old English or Middle Dutch words referring to boundaries or endpoints.

Derivatives

• Goalkeeper (noun)
• Goalpost (noun)
• Goal-line (noun)
• Goal-oriented (adjective)
• Goalless (adjective)

Synonyms

• Objective
• Target
• Ambition

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "goal" is widely used in personal and professional contexts to describe objectives ("His main goal is to complete his education") and in sports to denote scoring or the target area ("She scored the winning goal"). It is often associated with planning, ambition, and achievement.

Related Terms

• Achievement: The result of successfully reaching a goal.
• Purpose: The reason for which something is done or created.
• Milestone: A significant point or event in achieving a goal.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An objective or target to be achieved: Refers to a purpose or ambition.
  • Example: "Her ultimate goal is to become a doctor."
• The act of scoring in sports: Refers to the successful act of sending a ball or object into a designated scoring area.
  • Example: "He celebrated after scoring a goal in the final match."
• A designated area or target in sports: Refers to the physical space or structure where points are scored.
  • Example: "The striker aimed directly at the goal."