Which term signifies the intended reader or listener of a text?

The term that signifies the intended reader or listener of a text is "audience." In the context of communication and literature, the audience encompasses the individuals or groups for whom a particular message, story, or argument is crafted. Understanding the audience is crucial for writers and speakers, as it influences the content, tone, style, and structure of their work. The audience can be defined by various factors, including demographics, interests, cultural backgrounds, and prior knowledge.

While "recipient," "target," and "viewer" offer some related meanings, they do not capture the full scope of the audience concept. A "recipient" implies someone who receives information but doesn’t necessarily convey the engagement or interaction involved. "Target" suggests a more specific or strategic focus, often used in marketing contexts, which may not encompass all elements of audience engagement. "Viewer," although related to a visual medium, is limited to those who observe a visual presentation, lacking the broader application to written or spoken texts that include diverse types of audiences, whether they are reading, listening, or engaging with a message in various forms.