01
zielen
to aim
To point a weapon, device, or one's own attention at a specific target in order to hit or reach it.
example
Der Jäger zielte mit seinem Gewehr auf den Hirsch.
The hunter aimed his rifle at the deer.
zielen
to aim
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The verb 'zielen' (to aim) is closely related to the noun 'das Ziel' (the goal/target). It describes the action of orienting oneself toward a target or goal.
EXAMPLE
Mit dieser Maßnahme zielen wir auf eine schnelle Lösung des Problems.
With this measure, we are aiming for a quick solution to the problem.
Fixed preposition
'Zielen' (to aim) is almost always used with the preposition 'auf' and the accusative. This structure applies to both the literal and the figurative meaning.
EXAMPLE
Der Bogenschütze zielt auf die Mitte der Scheibe.
The archer aims at the center of the target.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning from the context: if it involves weapons, sports, or cameras, the literal meaning is intended. If it involves plans, marketing, or politics, the figurative, intentional meaning is intended.
EXAMPLE
Sie zielte mit der Kamera auf den Vogel im Baum.
She aimed the camera at the bird in the tree.
Use with subordinate clauses
In the figurative meaning, 'zielen' (to aim) can express an intention with a subordinate clause. The structure is then 'darauf zielen, dass ...' (to aim for it to be the case that ...) or 'darauf zielen, zu + infinitive' (to aim to + infinitive).
EXAMPLE
Die Diskussion zielte darauf, einen Kompromiss zu finden.
The discussion aimed to find a compromise.
Compare with
zielen vs treffen
to meet / to hit
'treffen' and 'zielen' often belong to the same situation, but they describe different steps. 'zielen' means that you point something at a target before shooting or throwing. 'treffen' means that you actually reach the target. You can aim well and still not hit. That is why learners can easily confuse the words. If you mean the intention or preparation, use 'zielen'. If you mean the result, use 'treffen'.
zielen
Beim Spiel zielt Tom lange auf die kleine Öffnung.
During the game, Tom aims carefully at the small opening.
treffen
Trotz des Windes traf sie die Flasche mit dem ersten Wurf.
Despite the wind, she hit the bottle with her first throw.
In real life
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