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die Zielscheibe
target
An object, usually with rings or markings, that one aims at when shooting or in throwing games.
example
Der Pfeil traf genau in die Mitte der Zielscheibe.
The arrow hit right in the center of the target.
die Zielscheibe
target
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word composition
The word is made up of 'das Ziel' (target/goal) and 'die Scheibe' (disc). So it literally describes a disc that you aim at. The gender is feminine because the head noun 'die Scheibe' is feminine.
EXAMPLE
Beim Bogenschießen benutzen wir große Zielscheiben.
In archery, we use large targets.
Context clue
You can tell from context whether the literal or the figurative meaning is intended. If it is about shooting, arrows, or throwing, it is literal. If it is about criticism, ridicule, or attacks, it is figurative.
EXAMPLE
Der Schütze traf die Zielscheibe genau in der Mitte.
The shooter hit the target exactly in the center.
Metaphorical meaning
'Zielscheibe' (target) is very often used in a figurative sense. A person or thing that is strongly criticized or attacked is then metaphorically referred to as a target.
EXAMPLE
Nach der Veröffentlichung des Berichts wurde das Unternehmen zur Zielscheibe von Protesten.
After the report was published, the company became the target of protests.
Typical expressions
In the figurative meaning, 'Zielscheibe' (target) is often used in fixed expressions, for example 'zur Zielscheibe werden' (to become a target), 'sich zur Zielscheibe machen' (to make oneself a target), or 'die Zielscheibe von Spott sein' (to be the target of ridicule).
EXAMPLE
Mit seinen kontroversen Aussagen machte er sich selbst zur Zielscheibe.
With his controversial statements, he made himself a target.
Compare with
Zielscheibe vs Ziel
goal / destination / target
'das Ziel' and 'die Zielscheibe' can both refer to something that one aims at. 'das Ziel' is more general: it can be a person, place, or object at which a shot, attack, or even criticism is directed. 'die Zielscheibe' is more specific when it refers to an object used for shooting or throwing, often with rings. In a figurative sense, 'Zielscheibe' can also be a person or thing that receives a lot of criticism or ridicule. The words can be confused because both are connected with 'zielen auf etwas' (to aim at something). If you mean the object used in training, you usually say 'Zielscheibe'; if you generally mean what something is directed at, 'Ziel' fits better.
Zielscheibe
Beim Training hängt die Zielscheibe am Ende der Halle.
During training, the target hangs at the end of the hall.
Ziel
Der Pfeil traf das Ziel genau in der Mitte.
The arrow hit the target right in the middle.
In real life
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