What does the term 'target audience' refer to in advertising?

The term 'target audience' specifically refers to the defined group of consumers that an advertisement is designed to reach. This concept is crucial in advertising because understanding the target audience allows advertisers to tailor their messaging, media selection, and overall campaign strategies to resonate with those most likely to engage with the product or service. By identifying characteristics such as interests, behaviors, and demographics, advertisers can create more effective and relevant ads that speak directly to the needs and desires of this distinct group.

The other options address related concepts but do not capture the precise definition of 'target audience.' For instance, the total number of people reached by an advertising campaign refers to the overall reach or impressions rather than the specific group intended to engage with the advertisement. The collection of data obtained from market research provides insights into consumer behavior and preferences but does not define the target audience itself. Finally, while demographics like age and gender are important components in forming a target audience, they are too broad and do not encompass the nuances necessary for effective targeting.