Hovedmålet

Hovedmålet is a Norwegian noun that denotes the main goal or primary objective of a plan, project, policy, or activity. It identifies the central aim that guided decisions and resource allocation.

The word is a compound of hoved (main, chief) and målet (the goal), with the definite form hovedmålet. It is widely used in business, public administration, education, and everyday language.

In planning contexts, the hovedmålet sets the scope and provides a reference point for success criteria. It is commonly accompanied by delmål (sub-goals) or delmålene for milestones, and by long- or short-term goals. When formulated well, the hovedmålet should be SMART: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.

Examples: "Hovedmålet med prosjektet er å redusere energiforbruket med 20 prosent innen to år." "Hovedmålet for studiet er å forbedre studentenes kritiske tenkning og skriveferdigheter." The term is suitable for formal reports and for everyday discussion about aims and priorities.

Etymology notes: the components are native Norwegian, with hoved meaning main or chief and målet meaning the goal. The definite form is commonly used in both spoken and written Norwegian.

See also: delmål, overordnede mål, målsetting.