Targetted vs. Targeted – Which is Correct?
“Targeted” is the universally accepted and correct spelling in English. The form “targetted” is a common misspelling that results from incorrectly doubling the ‘t’ before adding the ‘-ed’ suffix. Always use “targeted” when referring to something that has been aimed at, directed towards, or focused on a specific goal or audience.
Targetted or Targeted – Which is Correct?
The confusion between “targetted” and “targeted” is a common one, often stemming from phonetic intuition rather than correct spelling rules. The correct and only accepted spelling in both American and British English is targeted. “Targetted” is a widespread misspelling and should be avoided in all written communication.
| Word | Part of Speech | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Targeted | Adjective / Verb (past tense/participle) | Directed or aimed at a specific group, goal, or objective; having been made a target. | The marketing campaign was targeted at young adults. |
| Targetted | Incorrect | Misspelling of “targeted”. | (Incorrect usage) The advertisement was targetted at a niche market. |
How to Use Targeted
“Targeted” is primarily used as an adjective or the past tense/past participle form of the verb “to target.” As an adjective, it describes something that is specifically directed, aimed, or focused towards a particular group, objective, or area. When used as a verb, it indicates that an action of aiming or directing has occurred. It conveys precision and intentionality, and is suitable for both formal and casual contexts.
Example 1: The company launched a targeted advertising campaign to reach potential customers in urban areas.
Example 2: Scientists targeted specific genes for modification in their research.
Example 3: The security forces carried out a targeted strike on the enemy’s stronghold.
What are the different forms of Targeted?
The word “targeted” itself is the past tense and past participle of the verb “to target.” Other related forms include:
- Target (noun): An object, person, or place selected as the aim of an attack. A goal or objective.
- Target (verb): To aim at or direct towards something.
- Targeting (present participle/gerund): The act of aiming or directing.
- Targets (plural noun/third person singular verb): Multiple aims; he/she/it aims.
Etymology of the word Targeted
The word “target” originates from the Old French word targette, a diminutive of targe, meaning “light shield.” It entered English in the 14th century, initially referring to a small shield. By the 18th century, its meaning evolved to denote a mark or object aimed at in shooting practice. The verb “to target” and its past participle “targeted” developed from this sense of aiming at a specific mark or objective.
Related Concepts
The confusion surrounding “targeted” often arises from common spelling patterns for verbs ending in a single consonant preceded by a single vowel, where the consonant is doubled before adding suffixes like ‘-ed’ or ‘-ing’ (e.g., “stop” -> “stopped,” “stopping”). However, this rule applies when the stress falls on the last syllable of the base word, or if the word is a single syllable. In the case of “target,” the stress is on the first syllable (“TAR-get”). Therefore, the final ‘t’ is not doubled before adding ‘-ed’, adhering to standard English spelling conventions.
Understanding these specific rules helps clarify other common dilemmas, such as spelled or spelt.
Examples from Media and Literature
- “The article discussed how targeted advertisements often feel intrusive to users.” – The New York Times
- “With a targeted approach, the detective slowly pieced together the clues.” – From a crime novel
- “The government announced a new program offering targeted financial aid to small businesses.” – BBC News
- “Her speech was a targeted critique of the company’s environmental policies.” – A political commentary
- “The archer’s arrow found its targeted mark with unerring accuracy.” – A fantasy novel
Targeted Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Directed | Aimed or guided towards a particular point or purpose. |
| Focused | Concentrated on a specific objective or area. |
| Aimed | Directed an object or effort towards a goal. |
| Specific | Clearly defined or identified. |
| Precise | Exact, accurate, or clearly articulated. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Why do people often misspell “targeted” as “targetted”?
The misspelling often occurs due to phonetic spelling habits. Many English words ending in a single consonant after a single vowel double the consonant when adding “-ed” (e.g., “stop” -> “stopped”). However, this rule typically applies when the stress is on the last syllable, which is not the case for “target” (TAR-get), hence the single ‘t’.
Question 2: Is “targeted” considered American or British English?
“Targeted” is the correct and accepted spelling in both American English and British English. There is no distinction in spelling for this particular word between the two dialects.
Question 3: Can “targeted” be used to describe an audience?
Yes, absolutely. “Targeted audience” is a very common and correct phrase, referring to a specific group of people that a product, service, or message is intended for. For example, “The new video game is targeted at a teenage audience.”
Conclusion
To summarize, the definitive correct spelling is targeted. The form “targetted” is a widespread misspelling and should not be used in any formal or informal writing. Understanding the correct application of “-ed” suffixes, especially with words like “target” where the stress falls on the first syllable, helps solidify proper usage.
Pro Tip: Consistent and correct spelling, especially of common words like “targeted,” enhances your credibility and professionalism. Always proofread carefully or use a spell checker to avoid common errors.