The word "objective" can be used as an adjective and a noun. Here are synonyms for each usage and their explanations:
As an adjective (meaning unbiased, based on facts)
1. Unbiased
- Explanation: "Unbiased" means not influenced by personal feelings, opinions, or prejudices. For example, "An unbiased judge makes decisions based solely on the evidence presented." It's similar to "objective" in that it emphasizes fairness and a lack of partiality. When you are objective, you strive to see things as they really are without being swayed by your own emotions or preconceived notions, just like an unbiased observer.
2. Impartial
- Explanation: "Impartial" also means fair and just, not favoring one side over another. For example, "The impartial mediator listened to both parties' arguments carefully." It implies a neutral stance, much like "objective." When someone is impartial, they are not influenced by personal interests or attachments and can evaluate a situation objectively, treating all sides equally.
3. Neutral
- Explanation: "Neutral" means not supporting or helping either side in a conflict or disagreement. For example, "The country remained neutral during the war." In the context of being objective, "neutral" emphasizes a position that is free from allegiance to any particular point of view. It's like having a blank slate and basing your understanding on facts rather than taking sides, similar to the objectivity required in many decision - making processes.
4. Disinterested
- Explanation: "Disinterested" means having no personal stake or interest in a matter. For example, "A disinterested third - party was called in to resolve the dispute." It's related to objectivity because when you are disinterested, you are more likely to view a situation objectively. However, it's important to note that "disinterested" is sometimes confused with "uninterested," which means not interested at all. A disinterested person is not influenced by self - interest and can provide an objective assessment.
As a noun (meaning a goal, an aim)
1. Goal
- Explanation: "Goal" refers to the end result that one is trying to achieve. For example, "Her goal was to run a marathon in under four hours." It's similar to "objective" in that it represents a target or a destination. While "objective" as a noun can sometimes have a more formal or strategic connotation, "goal" is a more commonly - used term to describe a personal or organizational target that you strive to reach.
2. Aim
- Explanation: "Aim" also means a purpose or intention. For example, "The aim of the project is to improve community relations." It's closely related to "objective" as it represents what you are directing your efforts towards. The difference between "aim" and "objective" as nouns is quite subtle, and "aim" might sometimes imply a more immediate or focused intention, while "objective" can cover a broader range of purposes, including long - term and more complex goals.
3. Target
- Explanation: "Target" refers to an object or a goal that you are trying to hit or achieve. For example, "The company set a sales target for the quarter." It emphasizes the idea of a specific point or level that you want to reach. Similar to "objective," a target provides a clear direction for your actions. However, "target" can also have a more concrete and measurable feel, like a specific number or a particular outcome that you are aiming for.