Object

AIM

["Here’s a helpful hint for the clue \"Object\" with the answer \"AIM\":\n\n**\"It's what you might have in mind when you take a shot.\"**\n\nThis hint subtly guides the solver toward the idea of a target or goal (as in \"aim\") without directly repeating the clue or giving away the answer. It plays on the concept of aiming at something, making it easier than the original clue while still requiring a small leap of logic."]

The clue **"Object"** leading to the answer **"AIM"** relies on a clever play on the multiple meanings of the word "object." 1. **Direct Meaning**: As a noun, "object" can mean a physical thing or item. However, this interpretation doesn’t directly lead to "AIM." 2. **Verb Meaning**: As a verb, "to object" means to express disapproval or opposition. But this also doesn’t connect to "AIM." 3. **Alternative Meaning**: The key lies in the less common definition of "object" as a **goal or purpose**—something one strives for. In this sense, "object" is synonymous with **"aim"** (as in a target or intention). Thus, the clue uses the word "object" in its sense of a **goal or target**, which directly corresponds to the answer **"AIM."** This is a classic example of a crossword clue exploiting a word’s secondary or less obvious meaning to lead solvers to the correct answer.