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attain

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /əˈteɪn/

KK: /əˈteɪn/

intransitive verb
Definition

To succeed in achieving something after a lot of effort or time.


Example

She worked hard to attain her goals in life.


Tense Forms

Past: attained

Past Participle: attained


Conversation
Sloth A
I really want to attain my goals this year.
Sloth B
That's a great mindset! What are you planning to do?
Sloth A
I think if I stay focused and work hard, I can attain them.
Sloth B
Absolutely! Just take it one step at a time.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
achieve
reach
secure
Antonyms
fail
lose
miss
transitive verb
Definition

To achieve or reach something after a lot of effort or time.


Example

She worked hard to attain her goals.


Tense Forms

Past: attained

Past Participle: attained


Conversation
Sloth A
I really want to attain my fitness goals this year.
Sloth B
That's a great aim! What are you planning to do?
Sloth A
I think I need to stay consistent and maybe hire a trainer.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Attain is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "tenere" (meaning to hold). The word describes the act of holding or reaching something that one aims for.

Memory Tip

Think of 'to' ('ad-') and 'hold' ('tenere') — this helps you remember that to attain means to reach or hold something you desire.

Visually Confused Words
reattain
rattan
atwain
unattaint
tain
battalion
battakhin
Is this page helpful?
That sounds smart! A trainer can really help you attain those goals.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
achieve
obtain
reach
Antonyms
fail
lose
surrender