対象

• Reading: たいしょう
• Romaji: taishou
• Kanji breakdown: 対 (tai) — opposite, facing; 象 (shou) — image, phenomenon
• Pronunciation: /ta.i.ɕo.ɯ/

Meaning

Target; object of study or focus; subject of coverage or taxation.

A noun used to specify who or what something is directed at or applies to. Very common in official announcements, regulations, and academic contexts. Often followed by になる (to become a target) or として (as a subject of).

Examples

1. この割引は学生が対象です。 This discount is for students.
2. 調査の対象は二十代の女性だった。 The subjects of the survey were women in their twenties.
3. 子供を対象にしたイベントが開かれる。 An event aimed at children is being held.

Usage Guide

Context: official announcements, research, regulations

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Composed of 対 (opposite, facing) and 象 (elephant, image, phenomenon). Originally from Chinese, where it meant 'to face an image,' evolving to mean the object one faces or deals with.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal