Definition of Attain
Quick Meaning of Attain
To succeed in reaching or achieving something you want after effort.
Detailed Definition of Attain
To reach, achieve, or gain something, especially after effort or striving.
How to Pronounce Attain
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress second syllable: uh-TAYN. The 'ai' sounds like 'ay' in 'day'.
Watch out: AT-tain (stress on first syllable); should be uh-TAYN.
Origin and Etymology of Attain
From Old French ateindre, from Latin attingere, meaning 'to touch' or 'to reach'.
How to Use Attain in a Sentence
Each example shows “attain” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“She worked hard to attain her degree in engineering.”
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“The company attained record profits last quarter.”
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“Athletes must attain peak physical condition to compete at this level.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Attain
Common Synonyms for Attain
Smart Synonyms for Attain — When to Use Each
- achieve
- general; succeed in completing or reaching
- reach
- physical or figurative arrival at a goal
- gain
- acquiring something by effort or advantage
Antonyms of Attain
Common Collocations with Attain
These phrases pair with “attain” in everyday English:
- attain a goal
- attain success
- attain independence
- attain a degree
- attain the rank of
Common Mistakes When Using Attain
Even fluent speakers slip up with “attain”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He attained to his dreams.
- ✓ Correct: He attained his dreams.
- Why: Attain does not take 'to'; use 'attain a goal' not 'attain to a goal' in modern English.
- ✗ Wrong: The company attained profits increase last year.
- ✓ Correct: The company attained record profits last year.
- Why: Attain requires a direct object noun phrase, not a noun + verb structure.
- ✗ Wrong: She is attaining her success recently.
- ✓ Correct: She recently attained success.
- Why: Attain describes a completed action or achievement; use simple past tense, not present progressive.
Words Confused With Attain
- Attain vs Achieve: Attain suggests reaching a goal after sustained effort; achieve is more general and includes success by any means.
Other Forms of Attain
- Noun: attainment
- Verb: attain
- Adjective: attainable
Frequently Asked Questions About Attain
What is the meaning of "Attain"?
To succeed in reaching or achieving something you want after effort.
How do you pronounce "Attain"?
The IPA is /əˈteɪn/. Stress second syllable: uh-TAYN. The 'ai' sounds like 'ay' in 'day'.
What part of speech is "Attain"?
"Attain" is a verb at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Attain"?
Common synonyms include achieve, reach, gain.
How do you use "Attain" in a sentence?
For example: "She worked hard to attain her degree in engineering."