Obtain Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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obtain
ob-tain
Definition
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
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| obtain |
Used in formal or official situations, often implying effort or procedures to get something.
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| get |
A casual and everyday term, versatile and widely used in informal contexts.
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| acquire |
Indicates gaining something over time, often related to skills, habits, or possessions.
|
| secure |
Implies obtaining something with care, often used in contexts involving safety, stability, or assurance.
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| attain |
Often used in formal contexts to denote reaching a goal or a specific level of achievement.
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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
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Quick facts about “obtain”
Obtain is a 2-syllable verb (ob-tain). It is pronounced /əbˈteɪn/ in American English and /ɒbtˈeɪn/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 1 meaning, 4 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #974 among the most common English words.
Origin of 'obtain'
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.