Objectif vs. But

Question

Why is "objectif" not a good translation for "goal" here, and under what circumstances might one use it instead of "but"?

Cécile Janty-Davies · Accepted Answer

Bonjour S C,
Good question!
The difference is very subtle, and in the case of a clear single aim, you would use 'but'. It tends to refer to an overarching, singular purpose or aim.

Le but de cette réunion = The purpose of this meeting
Quel est ton but dans la vie ? = What's your aim in life?

Whereas, 'objectif' is often used in the plural -

Nos objectifs pour l'année ... = Our objectives for the year ...
atteindre ses objectifs = to reach one's objectives

In practice, they might be used interchangeably, but you could say 'objectif principal' to convey the same meaning in this particular context.
Hope this helps!