Attain vs. obtain

What does attain mean?

Attain is a verb which means to succeed in achieving something or to reach something such as a specified size or amount.

For example:

·      She attained the rank of dragon knight (succeeded in achieving).

·      The nearby mountains can attain a height of 3000 feet.

What does obtain mean?

Obtain is a verb which means to get or secure.

For example:

·      You must obtain travel insurance before going on holidays (get or secure).

What’s the difference between attain and obtain?

Attain means to succeed in achieving something or to reach a specified size or amount. Attain implies an effort to achieve, while obtain is to gain possession of something. However, in everyday usage both attain and obtain are often treated as synonyms.

For example:

·      When she attained the rank of dragon knight, she also obtained larger living quarters.