to get or acquire something through effort, to be generally accepted or established

obtain (something) by hook or by crook, obtain one's objectives, obtain a foothold

obtainable, obtain a loan, obtain a degree

Formal and Informal Expressions of obtain

In different contexts, you can replace 'obtain' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'acquire, procure' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'get, grab' is a commonplace synonym.

obtain: Explore its Definition & Usage

obtain Definition

1to get or acquire something through effort
2to be generally accepted or established

Using obtain: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "obtain" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
I was able to obtain a copy of the report.
Example
The necessary information can be obtained from the website.
Example
The permit can be obtained at the city hall.
Example
The right to vote is a privilege that must be obtained by meeting certain requirements.

obtain Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for obtain

Antonyms for obtain

Idioms Using obtain

obtain (something) by hook or by crook
to obtain something by any means necessary, even if it is illegal or unethical
Example
He was determined to obtain the information by hook or by crook.
obtain one's objectives
to achieve one's goals or objectives
Example
With hard work and determination, she was able to obtain her objectives.
obtain a foothold
to establish a position or gain an advantage in a particular area or situation
Example
The company was able to obtain a foothold in the new market.

Phrases with obtain

obtainable
able to be obtained or acquired
Example
The information is readily obtainable from the internet.
obtain a loan
to secure a loan from a financial institution
Example
He was able to obtain a loan to start his business.
obtain a degree
to successfully complete the requirements for a degree program and receive a diploma
Example
She worked hard to obtain her degree in engineering.

Origins of obtain

from Old French 'obtenir', from Latin 'obtinere', meaning 'hold fast, keep hold of, take possession of'

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Summary: obtain in Brief

The verb 'obtain' [əbˈteɪn] means to acquire something through effort or to be generally accepted or established. It is often used in formal contexts, such as 'The permit can be obtained at the city hall,' but also in informal contexts like 'I was able to obtain a copy of the report.' 'Obtain' extends into phrases like 'obtain a loan,' and idioms like 'obtain one's objectives,' denoting achieving goals, and 'obtain a foothold,' implying gaining an advantage.