Attainable vs. Obtainable: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Published on November 1, 2023
"Attainable" refers to something achievable with effort or skill, while "obtainable" means something can be acquired or procured.
Key Differences
"Attainable" and "obtainable" are terms that are often used interchangeably, but they have nuances that differentiate them. Attainable typically implies the possibility of reaching, achieving, or accomplishing something, often requiring effort, skill, or a particular process. This word is often used when discussing goals or milestones. On the other hand, obtainable emphasizes the ability to get, acquire, or procure something. It's more about accessibility and availability than the effort involved in reaching a goal.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
For instance, in the realm of personal goals, if someone says a target is attainable, it suggests that with the right amount of effort, strategy, and perseverance, that target can be reached. However, if a resource or item is described as obtainable, it signifies that it can be gotten or secured, perhaps by purchase or request. The emphasis here is not on the effort to achieve but on the possibility of acquisition.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Think about a rare book. If it's described as attainable, this might suggest that with diligent searching and perhaps a bit of luck, one could find a copy to purchase. If the same book is described as obtainable, it means there are ways to get it, perhaps through specific vendors or libraries. The nuance is subtle, but it's there.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
In a professional context, if a promotion or certain career level is attainable, it conveys the idea that with the right qualifications, experience, and performance, one can achieve that position. Meanwhile, if a certificate or a piece of equipment is obtainable, it means one can get it, maybe by completing a course or making a purchase.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 01, 2023
Comparison Chart
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Example
Achieving a personal best in a marathon.
Acquiring a rare book from a vendor.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Attainable and Obtainable Definitions
Attainable
Achievable through effort or action.
With dedication, a balanced lifestyle is attainable.
Sara Rehman
Oct 10, 2023
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Obtainable
Able to be acquired or procured.
The collector's edition is still obtainable online.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Attainable
Possible to reach or accomplish.
A gold medal is attainable for top athletes.
Janet White
Oct 10, 2023
Obtainable
Within reach for acquisition.
Rare stamps are obtainable at specialty shops.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Attainable
Realizable with the right approach or strategy.
With the right study techniques, high grades are attainable.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Obtainable
Accessible for those seeking to get or secure.
Tickets for the concert are obtainable at the box office.
Harlon Moss
Oct 10, 2023
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Attainable
Within the bounds of capability.
For her, singing those high notes is easily attainable.
Sara Rehman
Oct 10, 2023
Obtainable
Available for possession or use.
Organic ingredients are obtainable at the local market.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 10, 2023
Attainable
Accessible with the necessary skills or qualifications.
For those with experience, managerial positions are attainable.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Obtainable
To succeed in gaining possession of as the result of planning or endeavor; acquire.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Obtainable
To be in existence, in effect, or customary
"standards, proprieties that no longer obtain" (Meg Greenfield).
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Attainable
To come to or arrive at, as through movement, growth, or the passage of time
Redwoods can attain a height of 300 feet.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Attainable
To succeed in a directed effort, process, or progression
Attained to high office.
Eventually attained to wisdom.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Obtainable
Capable of being obtained;
Savings of up to 50 percent are obtainable
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Attainable
Capable of being attained or reached by efforts of the mind or body; capable of being compassed or accomplished by efforts directed to the object.
The highest pitch of perfection attainable in this life.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Obtainable
Possible to be gotten or secured.
With a library card, numerous resources become obtainable.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Attainable
Obtainable.
General Howe would not permit the purchase of those articles [clothes and blankets] in Philadelphia, and they were not attainable in the country.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Attainable
Capable of being attained or accomplished;
Choose an attainable goal
Art is not something that is come-at-able by dint of study
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
FAQs
Is every obtainable goal also attainable?
Not necessarily. Some obtainable items might not be attainable due to personal limitations.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Is something that's sold out still obtainable?
Not immediately, but it might be obtainable later or from other sources.
Sara Rehman
Nov 01, 2023
If something is rare, is it still obtainable?
Yes, rarity doesn't negate the fact that it's obtainable, just potentially harder to find.
Sara Rehman
Nov 01, 2023
Does "attainable" always require hard work?
Often, but not always. It emphasizes the possibility of achievement.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Is something obtainable if it's only available in another country?
Yes, it might require extra effort or cost, but it's still obtainable.
Janet White
Nov 01, 2023
Do both "attainable" and "obtainable" imply possibility?
Yes, but "attainable" emphasizes effort while "obtainable" emphasizes acquisition.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Can personal growth be considered attainable?
Yes, with the right effort and mindset, personal growth is attainable.
Janet White
Nov 01, 2023
Are digital products obtainable?
Yes, they can be downloaded or accessed online, making them obtainable.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Are limited-edition items always obtainable?
They are obtainable while supplies last or from secondary markets.
Sara Rehman
Nov 01, 2023
Can "attainable" refer to physical fitness goals?
Absolutely, like "running a marathon is attainable with training."
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Are vintage items obtainable?
Yes, often from specialty shops, auctions, or collectors.
Janet White
Nov 01, 2023
Can "attainable" refer to skills or abilities?
Yes, like "becoming a skilled pianist is attainable with practice."
Aimie Carlson
Nov 01, 2023
Can "attainable" apply to abstract concepts?
Yes, concepts like "happiness" or "peace" can be described as attainable.
Janet White
Nov 01, 2023
Can a mindset be attainable?
Yes, a particular mindset can be attainable with self-awareness and effort.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 01, 2023
Is self-improvement attainable for everyone?
While individual results vary, the process of self-improvement is attainable for most.
Janet White
Nov 01, 2023
If something is expensive, is it still obtainable?
Yes, cost doesn't negate obtainability, but it might limit who can obtain it.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Does "attainable" apply to educational milestones?
Yes, like "earning a PhD is attainable with dedication."
Janet White
Nov 01, 2023
Are items in a locked vault obtainable?
Not legally or easily, but theoretically, they're obtainable.
Janet White
Nov 01, 2023
Are out-of-print books obtainable?
They can be harder to find but are often obtainable from used bookstores or collectors.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Can "attainable" apply to financial goals?
Yes, like "buying a home is attainable with savings and good credit."
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited 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.
