take aim (at someone or something

take aim (at someone or something

1. To aim one's projectile weapon at someone or something. The sniper took aim and fired off a single shot, killing the suspect instantly. He had just begun to take aim at the deer when the sound of a car horn scared it away.2. To direct severe criticism or scorn at someone or something. The president took aim at the Russian president during her speech. You really need to double-check your sources before you take aim like that in the future.See also: aim, someone, something, take

take aim (at someone, something, or an animal)

to aim [something] at someone, something, or an animal. The hunter took aim at the deer and pulled the trigger. You must take aim carefully before you shoot.See also: aim, take

take aim at someone or something

Fig. to prepare to deal with someone or something; to focus on someone or something. (Based on take aim (at someone, something, or an animal).) Now we have to take aim at the problem and try to get it solved. The critics took aim at the star of the musical and tore her to pieces.See also: aim, take

take aim

Direct a missile or criticism at something or someone, as in Raising his rifle, Chet took aim at the squirrel but missed it entirely, or In his last speech the President took aim at the opposition leader. [Late 1500s] See also: aim, take

take ˈaim at somebody/something

(American English) direct your criticism at or your attention to somebody/something: The unions are taking aim at the government. ♢ Several retail giants have now decided to take aim at the youth market.See also: aim, somebody, something, take

take aim

1. To aim a weapon or object to be propelled.2. To direct criticism or one's attention at something.See also: aim, take