Targeted

Targeted is an adjective meaning directed at a particular person, group, object, or objective, or the past participle form of the verb target. It is used when describing efforts, treatments, or analyses that are not broad but aimed at a specific target. The term is common across many fields and often implies greater specificity or focus than generic approaches.

In marketing and advertising, targeted (or targeted advertising) uses data such as demographics, behavior, and context to tailor messages to individuals or segments. Proponents argue it increases relevance and efficiency; critics cite privacy risks and potential bias.

In medicine, targeted therapy refers to treatments designed to interact with specific molecular pathways or markers found in a disease, notably cancer. This approach aims to maximize efficacy while minimizing harm relative to non-specific therapies.

In security, defense, and policing, targeted operations or strikes focus on specific persons, groups, or facilities. While they can reduce collateral damage compared to broad actions, they raise ethical and legal questions about precision, civilian risk, and due process.

In research and analytics, targeted sampling or surveys focus on predefined populations to improve data quality or relevance. In information technology, targeted phishing or malware campaigns aim at specific individuals or organizations, highlighting the need for awareness and defense.