obtain

/əbˈteɪn/

to get or acquire something

She managed to obtain a rare book from the antique shop.

She successfully acquired a rare book from the antique shop.

general

to get something, especially by effort or request

He obtained a visa to travel abroad.

He acquired a visa to travel abroad.

Often used in formal or official contexts, such as legal or business settings.

Law

formal

to gain or secure something through effort or negotiation

The company obtained a patent for its new invention.

The company secured a patent for its new invention.

In legal contexts, 'obtain' often implies formal acquisition, such as a license, permit, or legal right.

Collocations

obtain informationto get or acquire informationobtain permissionto get official approvalobtain a degreeto earn or receive a degree

to achieve or acquire a result

to get someone's signature

'Obtain' is more formal than 'get.' Use it in writing, legal documents, or professional settings.

'Obtain' is transitive and requires a direct object. Avoid using it without an object.

From Middle English 'obteynen,' from Old French 'obtenir,' from Latin 'obtinere,' meaning 'to hold, gain, or acquire.'

While 'obtain' and 'get' are often interchangeable, 'obtain' is more formal and commonly used in written or official contexts.

ob-

toward, against

prefix

-tain

to hold, keep

root

English Dictionary