What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
arrive
Example
We will arrive at the airport at 5 PM. [arrive: verb]
Example
She arrived home after a long day at work. [arrived: past tense]
reach
Example
I can't reach the top shelf because I'm too short. [reach: verb]
Example
He finally reached his goal of becoming a doctor. [reached: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Arrive is more commonly used than reach in everyday language, especially when referring to reaching a specific location or the completion of a journey. Reach has a broader range of meanings and can be used in various contexts, including physical and metaphorical movement.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between arrive and reach?
Both arrive and reach can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, arrive is more commonly used in formal situations, such as business or academic settings, while reach is more versatile and can be employed in different formality levels.