Attain vs. Obtain
Words in the English language often sound similar and mean similar things, but they are used in quite different contexts. These two words-attain and obtain-sound similar and mean similar things, but they are used quite differently. Let's explore their different meanings and uses.
Attain is a verb meaning to succeed in achieving something or to reach a goal that was set.
1. At the age of 29, Clara attained her goal of graduating from college with a Ph.D.
2. Do you think that car can attain a speed of 100 miles per hour?
3. The football team finally attained their goal of winning every home game in a season.
4. The singer recently attained recognition as the first female singer to record 10 platinum albums in a row.
Obtain is also a verb meaning to acquire or get something.
1. Jessica obtained a book by borrowing Jeffrey's.
2. One day, I would like to obtain a pocket watch.
3. The nurse was able to obtain the information that the doctor needed to be able to treat the patient.
4. Principal Jones said she is working to get back the items that were stolen from me, but so far, she has not been able to obtain them.
Typically, attain is used to refer to the achievement of abstract goals and objectives. Obtain, on the other hand, is used in situations where the item that is acquired is actually physically acquired. I obtain objects, but I attain goals. This might be an easy way to help you remember!
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