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Obtain: meaning, definitions and examples

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obtain

 

[ əbˈteɪn ]

Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Verb

to get

To obtain means to get something that you want or need, often by making an effort or by asking for it. It can also refer to receiving something as a result of your actions.

Synonyms

acquire, attain, get, secure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
obtain

Used in formal or official situations, often implying effort or procedures to get something.

  • She had to work hard to obtain a visa
  • The researchers obtained significant results from the experiment
get

A casual and everyday term, versatile and widely used in informal contexts.

  • Can you get me a glass of water? I need to get some groceries
acquire

Indicates gaining something over time, often related to skills, habits, or possessions.

  • He acquired fluency in several languages
  • The company acquired new technology to improve its operations
secure

Implies obtaining something with care, often used in contexts involving safety, stability, or assurance.

  • He managed to secure a position at the company
  • She worked hard to secure a good future for her children
attain

Often used in formal contexts to denote reaching a goal or a specific level of achievement.

  • She attained her goal of becoming a doctor
  • They have attained a high level of proficiency in math

Examples of usage

  • I need to obtain a copy of that document.
  • She obtained her driver's license after passing the test.
  • We obtained permission to use the building for our event.

Translations

Translations of the word "obtain" in other languages:

🇵🇹 obter

🇮🇳 प्राप्त करना

🇩🇪 erhalten

🇮🇩 mendapatkan

🇺🇦 отримувати

🇵🇱 otrzymać

🇯🇵 得る (える)

🇫🇷 obtenir

🇪🇸 obtener

🇹🇷 elde etmek

🇰🇷 얻다 (eodda)

🇸🇦 الحصول على (alhusul ealaa)

🇨🇿 získat

🇸🇰 získať

🇨🇳 获得 (huòdé)

🇸🇮 pridobiti

🇮🇸 fá

🇰🇿 алу

🇬🇪 მიღება (migeba)

🇦🇿 əldə etmək

🇲🇽 obtener

Etymology

The word 'obtain' originates from the Latin word 'obtinere', which is a combination of 'ob-' (meaning 'thoroughly') and 'tenere' (meaning 'to hold'). The word entered the English language in the late 14th century, during the Middle English period. Over the centuries, 'obtain' has retained its meaning of acquiring or getting something.

See also: obtainable, obtained, obtaining, unobtainable, unobtainably, unobtained.

Word Frequency Rank

At #974 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.