# attain

/əˈteɪn/ (US) · /ɐtˈeɪn/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/attain
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to achieve a goal

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal · Academic

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

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

- After years of hard work, she finally attained her goal of becoming a doctor.
- The organisation has struggled to attain its carbon-neutrality targets despite significant investment in renewable infrastructure over the last decade.

### 2. to reach a level or age

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal

to reach a particular level, age, or condition.

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

- The tree can attain a height of over thirty metres in the right conditions.
- In many jurisdictions, individuals are not considered legal adults until they have attained the age of eighteen.

## Examples

- She worked hard to attain her goals.
- After years of dedicated practice, the musician finally managed to attain a professional level of mastery.
- The diplomat spent decades in public service before he could finally attain the rank of ambassador, a position that required both political skill and immense patience.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.