Reaching: meaning, definitions and examples

Suitable for physical destinations or metaphorical goals. Often implies effort or a process of getting to a certain point.

• She is reaching her hand out to help.
• After years of study, he is reaching a new level of expertise.

Generally used with goals or standards, usually implying effort and success. Often involves a significant level of effort or skill.

• He is achieving his dream of running a marathon.
• The team is achieving their targets this quarter.

Typically refers to gaining possession or reaching a specific state, often with a sense of formality or difficulty.

• She is attaining a level of fluency in Spanish.
• He is attaining the highest rank in the organization.

Used when referring to completing a task successfully. Emphasis is on the success and completion of an activity.

• She is accomplishing her goal of becoming an engineer.
• They are accomplishing great things with their new project.

Used when you are trying to get to or touch something by extending your arm or hand.

• She was reaching for the book on the top shelf.
• He is reaching out to grab the doorknob.

Used when you are making something longer or increasing its length, often used in formal or technical contexts.

• The bridge is extending over the river.
• He is extending his stay for another week.

Used when you are making something longer or wider by pulling it, often used in physical activities or exercises.

• The cat is stretching its body after a nap.
• She is stretching her arms before the run.

Used when you are seizing or holding something firmly with your hand, can have a negative connotation when referring to understanding with difficulty.

• She was grasping the rope tightly.
• He is grasping the concept slowly.