उद्देश्य तय करना

You use this phrase when you are in the planning phase. Use it with the verb चाहिए (should) to give advice. You can also use it in the past tense तय किया to show you have made up your mind. It fits perfectly in sentences where you are talking about careers, projects, or even a weekend trip. Just remember to keep उद्देश्य as the object.

Use it in a professional meeting to sound organized. It is great for academic settings when talking about a thesis. Use it with friends when you are all trying to decide where to go for vacation. It works whenever a group needs to get on the same page. It is the language of leaders and planners.

Do not use this for very small, impulsive actions. You do not 'define objectives' for buying a loaf of bread. Avoid it in highly emotional or romantic moments. Saying "Let's define our objectives" on a first date might make you look like a robot. Keep it for things that actually require a strategy.

In modern India, there is a huge focus on 'Lakshya' (target) and 'Uddeshya' (purpose). With the rise of the startup culture and competitive exams, these terms are everywhere. Historically, Indian philosophy emphasizes 'Dharma' or duty, but उद्देश्य is the modern, secular cousin. It reflects a shift toward structured, goal-oriented living in urban India.

You might hear लक्ष्य निर्धारित करना (lakshya nirdharit karna) in very formal news or textbooks. In casual slang, people just say सीन सेट करना (scene set karna). However, उद्देश्य तय करना is the perfect middle ground. It is sophisticated enough for an office but simple enough for a conversation with your cousin.