Attain vs. Obtain – Which is Correct?

In this article, we will explore the differences between the words attain and obtain, focusing on their meanings, uses, and contexts. Both words are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct connotations and applications in the English language. Understanding these differences can help enhance your vocabulary and communication skills.

Attain or Obtain – Which is Correct?

Both attain and obtain are correct words in the English language, but they are used in different contexts. Attain typically implies reaching a goal or state through effort, while obtain refers to acquiring something, usually through action or request.

Word	When to Use	Example
Attain	Used when achieving a goal or reaching a desired state.	She worked hard to attain her degree.
Obtain	Used when acquiring something through effort or request.	He was able to obtain the necessary documents.

How to Use Attain

To use attain correctly, it is important to pair it with goals, states, or achievements that require effort and time to reach.

Example 1: After years of dedication, she finally attained her goal of becoming a doctor.

Example 2: The athlete worked tirelessly to attain the championship title.

Example 3: He hopes to attain a higher level of proficiency in his language skills.

What are the different forms of attain?

“Attain” is a regular verb, forming its different tenses in the standard way. The base form or infinitive is simply “to attain.” The present tense examples include “I attain,” “you attain,” and “he/she/it attains.” The past tense is “attained,” while the future tense would be “I will attain.” The present participle form is “attaining,” and the past participle form is “attained.”

Etymology of the word attain

The word attain comes from the Old French term atteindre, which means “to reach, arrive at,” and ultimately from the Latin attingere, composed of ad (to) and tangere (to touch). This origin indicates the meaning of reaching or achieving something.

How to Use Obtain

When using obtain, it is essential to connect it with objects or things that can be acquired through effort, request, or interaction.

Example 1: She was able to obtain a rare piece of art for her collection.

Example 2: The student needed to obtain permission to access the restricted area.

Example 3: It is necessary to obtain customer feedback to improve services.

What are the different forms of obtain?

“Obtain” is also a regular verb. The base form or infinitive is “to obtain.” In the present tense, it would be “I obtain,” “you obtain,” and “he/she/it obtains.” The past tense is “obtained,” while the future tense is “I will obtain.” The present participle form is “obtaining,” and the past participle form is “obtained.”

Etymology of the word obtain

The word obtain comes from the Latin obtinere, meaning “to hold on to” or “to keep,” which is a combination of ob (against) and tenere (to hold). This origin reinforces the idea of acquiring or holding something.

Practice Exercises

1. She worked hard to ______ her goals this year.
2. He was able to ______ the latest updates on the project.
3. They aim to ______ a sense of community within the organization.
4. The scientist hopes to ______ a breakthrough in his research.
5. You need to ______ an appointment to see the doctor.

Answer Key

1. attain
2. obtain
3. attain
4. attain
5. obtain

Attain Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Achieve	To successfully reach a desired goal or standard.
Reach	To arrive at or come to a point or goal.
Accomplish	To complete successfully a task or goal.

Obtain Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Acquire	To gain possession or control of something.
Secure	To successfully obtain something, often with effort.
Gain	To come into possession of; to acquire.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between attain and obtain can significantly enhance your communication skills. While both words involve achieving or acquiring something, they are applied in distinct contexts that reflect different nuances in meaning.