ENGLISH
REFERENCE

attain

v.
US //əˈteɪn// UK //ɐtˈeɪn// at·tain
  1. 1 to achieve a goal (v.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Academic

    to succeed in getting something you want, usually after a lot of effort.

    to achieve or accomplish a desired goal or objective through sustained effort. Transitive — requires a direct object representing the achievement.

    Example

    After years of hard work, she finally attained her goal of becoming a doctor.

    Example

    The organisation has struggled to attain its carbon-neutrality targets despite significant investment in renewable infrastructure over the last decade.
  2. 2 to reach a level or age (v.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    to reach a particular level, age, or condition.

    to reach or arrive at a specific state, degree, or milestone, often through natural progression or growth.

    Example

    The tree can attain a height of over thirty metres in the right conditions.

    Example

    In many jurisdictions, individuals are not considered legal adults until they have attained the age of eighteen.
Origin

From Middle English atteynen, from Anglo-Norman ataindre, from Old French, from Latin attingō. Doublet of attainder and attinge.

Word family

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