attain

/ə'tein/

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Explanation of the Word "Attain"

Definition: The verb "attain" means to reach or achieve something, especially after a lot of effort or work. It can refer to both physical destinations (like a place) and abstract goals (like success or a level of knowledge).

Usage Instructions

• Form: "Attain" is a verb. It can be used in different tenses:

  • Present: attain
  • Past: attained
  • Present participle: attaining

• Subject: The subject can be a person, group, or thing that is trying to reach a goal.

• Objects: After "attain," you usually mention the goal or achievement. For example, "attain success," "attain a degree," or "attain a level."

Examples

1. Physical Destination: "After a long hike, we finally attained the mountain summit."
2. Abstract Goal: "She worked hard to attain her dream of becoming a doctor."
3. Achievement: "He attained a high score on the exam after studying for months."

Advanced Usage

• In more formal contexts, "attain" can be used to describe reaching a high level of achievement or status:

  • Example: "The company aims to attain a leading position in the market."

• It can also be used in academic or professional settings:

  • Example: "Students must attain a minimum grade to pass the course."

Word Variants

• Attainment (noun): The act of achieving or reaching something.

  • Example: "Her attainment of the championship title was celebrated by the entire team."

• Attainable (adjective): Something that can be reached or achieved.

  • Example: "Setting attainable goals can help you stay motivated."

Different Meanings

• "Attain" primarily focuses on achieving goals, but it can also imply reaching a certain state or condition:
  • Example: "She attained a state of calmness after practicing meditation."

Synonyms

Some synonyms for "attain" include: - Achieve - Reach - Obtain - Acquire - Realize

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

While there are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs that include "attain," you might hear phrases that convey similar meanings: - "Reach for the stars": This means to aim for high goals or ambitions. - Example: "Even if it seems difficult, always reach for the stars in your career."

Academic

Verb

1. reach a destination, either real or abstract
   • We hit Detroit by noon
   • The water reached the doorstep
   • We barely made it to the finish line
   • I have to hit the MAC machine before the weekend starts
2. find unexpectedly
   • the archeologists chanced upon an old tomb
   • she struck a goldmine
   • The hikers finally struck the main path to the lake
3. reach a point in time, or a certain state or level
   • The thermometer hit 100 degrees
   • This car can reach a speed of 140 miles per hour
4. to gain with effort
   • she achieved her goal despite setbacks

Synonyms

• reach
• make
• hit
• arrive at
• gain
• achieve
• accomplish