objective
ob-JEHK-tihv
Objective (adjective) means Based on facts rather than personal feelings or opinions. Example: “The report gives an objective account of what happened.”
adjective
1
Based on facts rather than personal feelings or opinions.
"The report gives an objective account of what happened."
"Try to stay objective when judging your own work."
"A judge must reach an objective decision based on the evidence, not on a hunch."
noun
1
A specific goal that someone is aiming to achieve.
"The team's main objective this quarter is to cut costs."
"Our objective is to finish the website before the end of the month."
"What is your main objective in learning English this year?"
How to use objective
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAs an adjective, fair and fact-based rather than opinion-based; as a noun, a goal.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "subjective," which means based on personal opinion or feeling.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
objective view
meet an objective
business objective
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Word forms
- Plural
- objectives
- Comparative
- more objective
- Superlative
- most objective
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The report gives an _____ account of what happened.
Etymology
From Medieval Latin obiectivus, built on the same root as object.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for objective
See all rhymes for objective →Frequently asked questions
What does “objective” mean?
The word “objective” means based on facts rather than personal feelings or opinions. In plain terms, as an adjective, fair and fact-based rather than opinion-based; as a noun, a goal.
How do you pronounce “objective”?
“Objective” is pronounced ob-JEHK-tihv (/əbˈd͡ʒɛk.tɪv/ in IPA).
How do you use “objective” in a sentence?
Here is “objective” used in a sentence: “The report gives an objective account of what happened.”
What is the opposite of “objective”?
The opposite of “objective” — its antonyms — is subjective.
What part of speech is “objective”?
Depending on how it is used, “objective” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “objective” come from?
The word “objective” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin obiectivus, built on the same root as object.
Is “objective” a common word?
“Objective” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “objective” have?
“Objective” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: based on facts rather than personal feelings or opinions.
What is the difference between objective and subjective?
Objective means based on facts and free from personal feelings, while subjective means shaped by individual opinions, emotions, or interpretations. An objective report states verifiable facts, whereas a subjective one reflects the writer's viewpoint.
What is the difference between an objective and a goal?
The two are close, but an objective is usually a specific, measurable step, while a goal is often broader and longer-term. Objectives are the concrete targets you set in order to reach a larger goal.
What is the difference between an objective and an aim?
An aim is a general intention or purpose, while an objective is a more precise, often measurable target. You might have an aim to improve your health and an objective to walk 10,000 steps a day.
How do you know whether "objective" is being used as an adjective or a noun?
If "objective" describes something as fact-based or unbiased, it is an adjective, as in "an objective assessment." If it names a goal you are aiming for, it is a noun, as in "our main objective."
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