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Dictionary-enhanced synonyms

Synonyms for “Achieve” — 4 Other Ways to Say It

To succeed in getting what you wanted after hard work.

IPA: /əˈtʃiːv/Level: B2Register: neutralPart of speech: verb

Meaning of Achieve

To attain or reach a goal or desired result through effort and determination.

How to Pronounce Achieve

IPA: /əˈtʃiːv/ Stress: oO

Starts with schwa 'uh', then 'CHEEV': ə-CHEEV, not ah-CHEE-v.

Full pronunciation guide for achieve →

4 Synonyms for Achieve — Words Similar to Achieve

Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.

reach

/riːtʃ/
verb A1

To stretch out your hand or arm to get something that is far from you.

Example: Can you reach the book on the top shelf?

attain

/əˈteɪn/
verb B2 Formal

To succeed in reaching or achieving something you want after effort.

Example: She worked hard to attain her degree in engineering.

obtain

/əbˈteɪn/
verb B1 Formal

To get or receive something that you want or need.

Example: You can obtain a visa by submitting the required documents.

gain

/ɡeɪn/
verb A2

To get something you did not have before, or to have more of something.

Example: She gained confidence after winning the speech competition.

Smart Synonyms for Achieve — When to Use Each

reach

For arriving at or touching a target level

attain

For reaching a difficult goal after sustained effort

obtain

For getting or acquiring something needed

gain

For acquiring an advantage or improvement

How to Use Achieve and Its Synonyms in Sentences

  • With hard work, she achieved her dream of becoming a doctor. B2
  • The athletes achieved excellent results in the competition. B1
  • He finally achieved success after years of effort. B1

Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Achieve

What is another word for "achieve"?

Common synonyms for "achieve" include: reach, attain, obtain, gain.

What can I say instead of "achieve"?

Try one of these alternatives: reach, attain, obtain, gain. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.

Is "achieve" formal or informal?

"achieve" is generally used in neutral contexts.

When should I use "achieve" instead of "reach"?

Use "achieve" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "reach" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.

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