What is achieve? Pronunciation and usage in English

achieve means . Learn how to pronounce and use achieve through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of achieve

achieveverb

/əˈtʃiːv/
Definition & pronunciation of achieve

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "achieve." It's a tricky one for many English learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Most Common Pronunciation (American English):

  • ˈeɪtʃiːv

    • ˈeɪ: This is the stressed syllable. Say it like the "a" in "say" or "bay."
    • ʃiːv: This is the less stressed syllable. The "ch" sounds like the "sh" in "ship." The "i" is a short "i" sound, like in "bit." The "v" is pronounced as a 'v' sound.

2. British English Pronunciation:

  • əˈtʃiːv

    • ə: This is a schwa sound – a very short, relaxed “uh” sound. It’s the most common vowel sound in English, and it's often unstressed.
    • ˈtʃiːv: This is the stressed syllable. The "ch" sounds like the "sh" in "ship". The "i" is a long "ee" sound, as in "see". The "v" is pronounced as a 'v' sound.

Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Focus on the "sh" sound for the "ch": This is the key difference between the American and British pronunciations.
  • Stress the first syllable: Making that first syllable clear will help people understand you.
  • Practice slowly: Say each syllable individually before putting it all together.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear native English speakers pronounce it. You can find audio examples on:
    • Google Translate: (Type "achieve" and click the speaker icon)
    • Forvo: (www.forvo.com – a website with pronunciations by native speakers)
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce achieve"

Resources:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • Which accent are you most interested in (American, British, or something else)?

Usage and examples with the word achieve in English

Let's break down how to use the word "achieve" effectively in English. It's a versatile word with a slightly formal feel, but it's perfectly acceptable in most contexts.

1. Core Meaning: To Successfully Accomplish

At its heart, "achieve" means to successfully bring about or accomplish something. It implies effort and a positive outcome.

2. Common Sentence Structures:

  • "Achieve [goal/result]": This is the most common structure.

    • Example: "She wants to achieve her dream of becoming a doctor."
    • Example: "The company aimed to achieve a 10% increase in sales this quarter."
    • Example: "We need to achieve a sustainable solution to this problem."

  • "Achieve something by [method/action]": You can emphasize how you achieve something.

    • Example: “He achieved success through hard work and dedication.”
    • Example: "They achieved their targets by working overtime."

3. Different Contexts and Nuances:

  • Personal Goals: "He achieved a personal best in the marathon." (Meaning he ran faster than before) "She hoped to achieve a better work-life balance."

  • Professional Goals: "The team achieved a significant milestone in the project." "The organization achieved its fundraising goals."

  • Academic Goals: "Students achieve high grades through diligent study." "He achieved a first-class honors degree."

  • Figurative Use (less common): Sometimes, it can refer to gaining something intangible, though this is less frequent than the literal meaning. For example: "They sought to achieve peace in the region." (meaning to bring about peace).

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Accomplish: Very similar and often interchangeable.
  • Attain: Often implies a more difficult or longer-term achievement.
  • Realize: Suggests bringing something into existence or making it happen.
  • Obtain: Focuses on receiving or acquiring something.
  • Gain: Similar to obtain - achieving something new or additional.

5. Important Considerations:

  • Formal Tone: "Achieve" leans slightly more formal than words like "get" or "do." It’s generally fine for professional writing, academic settings, and speeches. For casual conversation, "get" or "do" might be more natural.

  • “Achieve” vs. “Make”: While sometimes interchangeable, "achieve" suggests a more substantial or effortful accomplishment than “make.” “Make a decision” vs. “achieve a decision” - the latter feels a bit more formal and deliberate.

  • Past Tense: The past tense of "achieve" is "achieved." Example: "She achieved her goal last year."

Examples to illustrate usage:

  • "The scientists achieved a breakthrough in cancer research."
  • "By practicing regularly, she achieved fluency in Spanish."
  • "The company’s mission is to achieve sustainable growth."
  • “The athlete achieved a new personal record.”

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of writing or speaking are you using "achieve" in? (e.g., a formal essay, casual conversation, a business report?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you’re trying to improve?

Synonyms for the word achieve

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