Attain vs. Obtain
In this lesson, we're going to compare 'obtain' and 'attain'. If you want to make progress in the English language, learning these details might help you.
What Is Their Main Difference?
Both of these words refer to achieving something. However, 'attain' is used when we reach a goal, a set of criteria, etc. after trying for a long time. When attaining something, there is usually a bit of difficulty involved.
'Obtain', on the other hand, refers to getting something especially through effort, skill, or work, be it physical or non-physical.
Differences
'Attain' can be used to indicate reaching a specific degree, a set of criteria, a certificate, etc. Look at the following examples for more clarification:
My daughter
It's satisfactory to know people tend to
We can use 'obtain' to refer to getting something, whether a physical object or a characteristic, etc. Look at the following examples for more clarification:
If Mathew does not
Gregory and Thomas both tried to
Similarities
Both of these words indicate achieving something. Look below:
So, I ran back upstairs,
Here, 'obtain' means that draught exists.
Are They Interchangeable?
Although both of these words refer to achieving something, we cannot use them interchangeably. If you compare the following examples, you will understand that we cannot use 'attain' to refer to getting a particular object. Compare:
✓ Did you
✗ Did you
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