What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
attain
Example
She worked hard to attain her dream of becoming a doctor. [attain: verb]
Example
He finally attained the position he had been striving for. [attained: past tense]
accomplish
Example
I was able to accomplish all the tasks on my to-do list today. [accomplish: verb]
Example
She felt a sense of accomplishment after finishing the marathon. [accomplishment: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Accomplish is more commonly used than attain in everyday language. Accomplish is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while attain is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between attain and accomplish?
While attain can be used in both formal and informal contexts, accomplish is generally considered more formal. Accomplish is often used in professional settings or when discussing significant achievements, while attain can be used in a wider range of situations.
