What is the Difference Between Obtain and Attain?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The difference between "obtain" and "attain" lies in the context and the degree of effort involved in achieving or acquiring something.
- Obtain means to get or take possession of something, typically without much effort being put into acquiring it. It is often used in the context of acquiring knowledge or information, such as obtaining the highest scores in a class.
- Attain is often used interchangeably with "achieve" and means to gain through effort or to accomplish a task by putting in effort. It implies a sense of accomplishment or reaching a certain level of success, as in attaining a goal or achieving a desired result.
In summary:
- "Obtain" is used when acquiring something without much effort.
- "Attain" is used when accomplishing a task or reaching a goal through effort and dedication.
Both words can sometimes be used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings and connotations that should be considered depending on the context in which they are used.
Comparative Table: Obtain vs Attain
Here is a table highlighting the differences between "obtain" and "attain":
| Obtain | Attain |
|---|---|
| Refers to the acquisition, ownership, or possession of something as the result of a targeted effort | Refers to the achievement of intangible goals, skills, or dreams |
| Can be used in place of each other, but sometimes they are not, because they have similar meaning but they don't mean the same exact thing | Not synonymous with "obtain" as they have different meanings and usage scenarios |
| Example: He obtained the information from her | Example: Jessica attained her goal of becoming a successful entrepreneur |
In summary, "obtain" is more about getting something tangible, while "attain" is about achieving intangible goals or skills. Although they can sometimes be used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings and contexts of use.
Read more:
- Acquire vs Obtain
- Attain vs Attend
- Achievement vs Attainment
- Acquire vs Procure
- Accomplishment vs Achievement
- Success vs Achievement
- Have vs Get
- Take vs Get
- Ascribed vs Achieved Status
- Aim vs Goal
- Profit vs Gain
- Goal vs Objective
- Learning vs Acquisition
- Happen vs Occur
- Should vs Ought To
- Ambition vs Goal
- Use vs Utilize
- Keep vs Maintain
- On vs Upon