What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
achieve
Example
She achieved her goal of running a marathon. [achieved: past tense]
Example
The company achieved record profits this quarter. [achieved: verb]
succeed
Example
He succeeded in convincing the board to approve the project. [succeeded: past tense]
Example
She hopes to succeed in her new role as CEO. [succeed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Succeed is more commonly used than achieve in everyday language. Succeed is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while achieve is less common and often used in academic or professional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between achieve and succeed?
Both achieve and succeed can be used in formal and informal contexts, but achieve is often associated with a more formal tone due to its use in academic or professional settings.
