What is obtain? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of obtain

obtainverb

/əbˈteɪn/
Definition & pronunciation of obtain

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "obtain" in English. Here's a breakdown and a few ways to articulate it:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • oh-TAIN

Let's break that down further:

  • oh: Say the "oh" sound as in "go" or "boat." It's a short, open vowel.
  • TAIN: This is the tricky part. It sounds like "tin" but with a slightly more drawn-out "a" sound. It's almost like you're saying "tin" but holding the "a" for a little longer. It rhymes with "pain" but with a softer "n" sound at the end.

Here’s a breakdown of the sounds, and some resources for hearing it:

  • IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet): /oʊˈteɪn/
    • /oʊ/ – represents the “oh” sound (like in “go”)
    • /ˈteɪn/ – represents the two syllables. The stress is on the second syllable ("TAIN").

Resources to hear it pronounced:

Tips for getting it right:

  • Emphasis: The emphasis is on the second syllable ("TAIN").
  • Practice: Say it slowly at first, focusing on each syllable. Then gradually increase your speed.
  • Listen and Repeat: The best way to learn is to listen to native speakers pronounce it and then try to imitate them.

Do you want me to:

  • Break down a specific part of the pronunciation further?
  • Give you some example sentences using “obtain”?

Usage and examples with the word obtain in English

Let's break down how to use the word "obtain" in English. It's a slightly more formal word than "get" or "receive," and it often implies a bit more effort or difficulty in acquiring something.

1. Basic Meaning:

At its core, "obtain" means to get or acquire something. It’s about bringing something into your possession.

2. Common Uses & Examples:

  • Formal Requests & Permissions: This is where "obtain" is frequently used.

    • "I need to obtain a permit before starting construction." (Getting permission)
    • “The company must obtain approval from the board of directors.” (Getting authorization)
    • "She needed to obtain a visa to travel to France." (Getting a necessary document)

  • Difficult or Lengthy Processes: It suggests a process that isn’t simply grabbing something.

    • "It took me weeks to obtain the necessary documentation." (A challenging process)
    • "The researchers spent years obtaining the data they needed." (A significant effort)
    • “He struggled to obtain financing for his project.” (Difficulty securing funds)

  • Purchasing or Buying: While "get" or "buy" are more common, "obtain" can work.

    • “I need to obtain a copy of the contract.” (Buying a copy)
    • "Please obtain the tickets from the box office." (Getting/purchasing tickets)

  • Learning or Finding Information:

    • "I need to obtain more information about the course." (Finding information)
    • "He attempted to obtain answers to the complex questions.” (Seeking answers)

3. Key Differences from "Get" and "Receive":

Word Connotation Level of Formality Example
Get Casual, easy Informal "I got a new phone."
Receive Slightly more formal Formal/Semi-formal "I received a package in the mail."
Obtain Effortful, deliberate Formal "I obtained permission to attend."

4. Sentence Structure & Usage:

  • "Obtain" + Object: The most common structure.

    • “They obtained information.”
    • “He obtained the key.”

  • "Obtain" + Noun Phrase:

    • "I obtained a degree in engineering."
    • "She obtained a valuable insight."

5. Synonyms:

  • Acquire
  • Secure
  • Procure
  • Obtain (itself - can be used repeatedly for emphasis)

Resources for More Examples:

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

  • What kind of context are you thinking about using "obtain" in? (e.g., writing an essay, a conversation, a business email?)

Synonyms for the word obtain

Practice with vocabulary obtain

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The company hopes to ________ regulatory approval for its new drug before the end of the fiscal year.
  2. Through diligent searching, she managed to ________ a rare first edition of the novel.
  3. Researchers need to ________ sufficient data from various sources before drawing definitive conclusions.
  4. All employees will ________ a detailed performance review at the end of the quarter.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (There may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. To successfully complete the project, we must ________ the necessary permits from the city council. a) receive b) achieve c) obtain d) seize

  2. The research team aimed to ________ comprehensive data through extensive fieldwork. a) gather b) collect c) obtain d) compile

  3. Before starting the construction, the company needs to ________ all the required documentation. a) get b) procure c) secure d) obtain

  4. She tried to ________ her colleagues' support for the new initiative during the team meeting. a) enlist b) persuade c) convince d) elicit

  5. The new policy aims to ________ economic growth in the region by attracting foreign investment. a) foster b) stimulate c) promote d) acquire

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The organization succeeded in getting crucial funding for its humanitarian projects. Rewrite using "obtain" or a related word form:

  2. Students can get valuable feedback by attending office hours regularly. Rewrite using "obtain" or a related word form:

  3. He worked hard to reach his professional goals despite numerous challenges. Rewrite using a suitable replacement word instead of "obtain":

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The company hopes to obtain regulatory approval for its new drug before the end of the fiscal year.
  2. Through diligent searching, she managed to acquire a rare first edition of the novel.
  3. Researchers need to obtain sufficient data from various sources before drawing definitive conclusions.
  4. All employees will receive a detailed performance review at the end of the quarter.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) obtain
  2. a) gather, b) collect, c) obtain, d) compile
  3. b) procure, c) secure, d) obtain
  4. a) enlist, d) elicit
  5. a) foster, b) stimulate, c) promote

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The organization succeeded in obtaining crucial funding for its humanitarian projects.
  2. Students can obtain valuable feedback by attending office hours regularly.
  3. He worked hard to achieve his professional goals despite numerous challenges.

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