Unobtained Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unobtained

[ˌʌn.əbˈteɪnd ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

rare

Not obtained or achieved, typically due to difficulty or obstacles.

Synonyms

inaccessible, unattainable, unreachable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unobtained	Used when something has not been acquired or achieved yet, typically in the context of goals, items, or information. The data remains unobtained due to technical difficulties. Many of the rare collectibles in the game are still unobtained.
unattainable	Describes a goal or aspiration that cannot be achieved, often implying an element of impossibility or extreme difficulty. For many, the dream of owning a luxury yacht is simply unattainable. Perfection is often considered an unattainable ideal.
inaccessible	Refers to something that cannot be reached, entered, or used, often due to physical barriers or restrictions. The remote village is inaccessible during the winter months. The website was inaccessible due to server issues.
unreachable	Pertains to something or someone that cannot be contacted or physically reached, often used in personal or technical contexts. The satellite signal was unreachable from our current location. He is currently unreachable by phone, you might want to send an email.

Examples of usage

The unobtained treasure remained hidden deep in the cave.
She had set her sights on the unobtained scholarship, determined to overcome any obstacles.
The unobtained goal seemed out of reach, but she refused to give up.
The unobtained dream of becoming a doctor kept him motivated to study hard.
Despite the challenges, she was determined to turn the unobtained opportunity into a reality.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

The concept of 'unobtained' can tie into existential themes, highlighting desires and aspirations that remain out of reach.
In discussions about happiness, the idea of unattainable goals often influences human motivation and fulfillment.

Psychology

Research indicates that unmet desires can lead to feelings of frustration or disappointment, especially in goal-setting contexts.
Perception of 'unobtainable' can often fuel ambition, as people strive to turn the unattainable into reality.

Literature

In many literary works, characters often grapple with things they yearn for but cannot have, symbolizing deeper emotional struggles.
The theme of unfulfilled desires appears regularly in poetry, often as a metaphor for greater life challenges.

Economics

In economic terms, 'unobtained' resources may refer to untapped market potentials that could benefit economies if explored.
The metaphor of 'unobtained wealth' can illustrate economic disparities in society, where many struggles with resources they cannot acquire.

Origin of 'unobtained'

Main points about word origin

The prefix 'un-' means 'not,' while 'obtained' comes from the Latin word 'obtinere,' meaning 'to hold or possess.'
The use of 'unobtained' might not be common in everyday speech, but it follows standard conventions of English word formations.

The word 'unobtained' is a combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the past participle of the verb 'obtain.' It first appeared in the English language in the late 19th century.