ENGLISH
REFERENCE

obtaining

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //əbˈteɪnɪŋ// UK //ɒbtˈeɪnɪŋ// ob·tain·ing

v. to get something, especially by working hard or following a formal process. You use this when you finally receive something important like a permit, a degree, or a result.

v. to acquire or secure something through effort, request, or formal procedure. Transitive; typically implies a successful outcome following a specific action or application.


SIMPLE

She is obtaining her driver's license today.

CONTEXTUAL

The researchers are currently obtaining the necessary permissions to conduct the study in the national park.

COMPLEX

Obtaining a comprehensive understanding of the geopolitical landscape requires years of dedicated study and access to primary sources that are often restricted to the public.

Synonyms
Usage

The verb is transitive and requires a direct object. It is more formal than 'get' and is frequently used in administrative, legal, or academic contexts.

Pitfall

He is obtaining of the permit.He is obtaining the permit.Obtaining is a transitive verb and takes a direct object; it should not be followed by the preposition 'of'.

© 2026 English Reference