Attain vs. Obtain: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 24, 2023
Attain is about achieving a goal or level; obtain is about acquiring or getting something.
Key Differences
Attain often suggests a journey or effort toward achieving a particular goal, while obtain implies getting possession of something, usually through effort or request.
Huma Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
One might attain enlightenment through meditation, whereas one would obtain a book from a library.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Attain can be used in contexts where there's a sense of accomplishment or reaching a certain status, while obtain is more straightforward, often focusing on the act of getting or procuring.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Degrees, milestones, or personal growth are typically "attained," whereas objects, permissions, or tangible items are usually "obtained."
Harlon Moss
Oct 24, 2023
While you attain a new skill by practicing and learning, you obtain a new gadget by buying or receiving it.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
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Comparison Chart
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Attain and Obtain Definitions
Attain
Succeed in achieving.
Through dedication, she attained excellence in her field.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Obtain
Be prevalent, customary, or established.
The same rules obtain for everyone.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 24, 2023
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Obtain
Secure (something) as a result of effort.
Through hard work, he obtained the promotion.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Attain
Reach (a particular age, size, or amount).
The tree can attain a height of 20 feet.
Janet White
Oct 24, 2023
Attain
Accomplish or realize (a goal).
They hope to attain peace through dialogue.
Harlon Moss
Oct 24, 2023
Obtain
Bring something into one's possession.
He obtained the documents through legal means.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Obtain
To succeed in gaining possession of as the result of planning or endeavor; acquire.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 09, 2019
FAQs
Is attain only about achieving goals?
Primarily, but it can also refer to reaching a place, age, or size.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Can you obtain mastery?
While you can "attain" mastery through effort, it's less common to say "obtain" mastery.
Sara Rehman
Oct 24, 2023
Is it correct to say "obtain a milestone"?
No, milestones are typically "attained."
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Is obtain about physical possession?
Often, but it can also refer to gaining rights, permissions, or conditions.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Can you obtain knowledge?
While less common, it can be used to mean acquiring knowledge from a source.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Is obtain more transactional?
Often, as it implies getting or securing something.
Harlon Moss
Oct 24, 2023
Can obtain be used in the sense of prevailing conditions?
Yes, as in "the same rules obtain for everyone."
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Can something be both attained and obtained?
In some contexts, yes, like achieving and getting a degree.
Sara Rehman
Oct 24, 2023
Is attain always about a long journey or process?
Often, but not always. It can simply mean to reach or achieve.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Is attain more about personal achievement?
Generally, yes. It often implies effort and accomplishment.
Harlon Moss
Oct 24, 2023
Which word indicates more effort: attain or obtain?
Typically, "attain" implies more effort in reaching a goal or status.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Is there any overlap in the usage of attain and obtain?
Occasionally, especially when discussing achievements like degrees.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
