Objektives

Objektives is a term whose meaning varies by language and field. In English, the form is usually written as “objectives” and denotes aims or goals that a person, group, or organization intends to achieve. Objectives are often used in planning, project management, education, and research to describe specific, measurable targets that guide actions and enable evaluation of outcomes.

In optics, the term objectve (singular) or, more commonly, “objective” refers to the main lens or lens assembly that forms the image in instruments such as microscopes, telescopes, and cameras. The plural, “objectives,” names the different lens assemblies available for an instrument, typically chosen according to magnification, numerical aperture, working distance, and optical correction. Objective lenses are designed to optimize image quality across a field of view and are frequently specialized (for example, for brightfield, fluorescence, or darkfield applications) and compatible with standardized mounting systems.

In German-language usage, Objektiv means a lens, and Objektive is the plural form. The spelling “Objektives” is not standard for the plural of Objektiv; it may appear as a misspelling or in nonstandard contexts. When referring to goals in German, the equivalent term is Ziele or Zielsetzungen, not Objektive.

See also: objective lens, objective (goal), project objectives, optical design.