targeted
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targeted
Directed toward a specific goal and pursued with a clear intention. It describes an approach that is not random, but planned and focused.
Durch zielgerichtete Fragen konnte die Moderatorin die Diskussion wieder auf das Hauptthema lenken.
Through targeted questions, the moderator was able to steer the discussion back to the main topic.
The word is made up of 'Ziel' (goal) and 'gerichtet' (past participle of 'richten', to direct). It literally means 'directed toward a goal' and describes an action that is not random, but planned.
Die Polizei startete eine zielgerichtete Suche nach dem Vermissten.
The police launched a targeted search for the missing person.
'Zielgerichtet' (targeted) can stand as an adjective before a noun or as an adverb describing a verb. As an adverb, it remains unchanged.
Eine zielgerichtete Vorbereitung ist der Schlüssel zum Erfolg.
Targeted preparation is the key to success.
Common combinations are 'zielgerichtete Maßnahmen' (targeted measures), 'zielgerichtete Förderung' (targeted support), 'zielgerichtet suchen' (to search in a targeted way), 'zielgerichtet handeln' (to act purposefully), or 'zielgerichtet vorgehen' (to proceed in a targeted way).
Das Team arbeitete zielgerichtet an einer Lösung für das Problem.
The team worked in a targeted way on a solution to the problem.
This word is often used in professional, scientific, or official contexts. It sounds more formal and precise than simply saying 'with a goal'.
Die Regierung kündigte zielgerichtete Hilfen für die betroffenen Regionen an.
The government announced targeted aid for the affected regions.
random / by chance
'zufällig' and 'zielgerichtet' describe two opposite ways in which something happens or is done. 'zufällig' means without a plan or intention. 'zielgerichtet' means with a clear goal and deliberate planning. If someone acts 'zufällig', there is no clear direction. If someone acts 'zielgerichtet', they know what they want to achieve.
Julian hat in der Pause zielgerichtet nach einer ruhigeren Wohnung gesucht.
During the break, Julian searched specifically for a quieter apartment.
Sie sah die Anzeige zufällig beim Termin im Wartezimmer.
She happened to see the ad during her appointment in the waiting room.