aim to

Idioms  

1. Try or intend to do something, as in We aim to please, or She aims to fly to California. This term derives from aim in the sense of “direct the course of something,” such as an arrow or bullet. [Colloquial; c. 1600]

---

Example Sentences

I’m not sure how much you’ve saved, but if you aim to put 20% down — $200,000 in this case — you’ll need to set aside money consistently.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

Ultimately, the researchers aim to inform the public about a potential but often overlooked source of lead exposure in children's clothing.

From Science Daily • Apr. 2, 2026

The Artemis missions aim to return Americans to the Moon and establish a permanent presence there.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

Japan’s fortifications aim to protect the vulnerable islands, but they have an added advantage: They complicate China’s freedom of maneuver, Matsuda said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

“But one way or another, they’re taking Uncle Al down. I aim to help if I can.”

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen