Meaning of Reach
The verb reach generally means to arrive at a place, point, or condition. It can describe physically getting to a location, extending something to touch or grasp, or arriving at an abstract goal such as a decision or level. In Spanish, it is often translated as alcanzar or llegar.
Meaning of Achieve
Achieve refers to successfully completing a goal, task, or ambition, especially something that requires effort, skill, or courage. It emphasizes the process of accomplishment and the result of hard work. The Spanish equivalent would be lograr or conseguir.
Meaning of Attain
To attain means to succeed in reaching a desired objective, usually after much effort, with an emphasis on the result or status obtained. It is often used in formal or academic contexts. The closest Spanish translation is alcanzar or conseguir, similar to achieve, but it often implies reaching a higher or more abstract level like a qualification or position.
Differences in Usage
While all three verbs convey success or arrival at a goal, reach is broader and can be physical or metaphorical, achieve stresses effort and completion of a goal, and attain highlights reaching a position or rank usually after persistent effort. For instance, you can reach a city, achieve a diploma, and attain a leadership role.
Examples in Context
- We finally reached the summit after a long climb. (alcanzamos)
- She achieved her dream of becoming a doctor. (logró)
- He attained the rank of general in the army. (alcanzó)
Summary Table
| Verb | Primary Meaning | Emphasis | Spanish Equivalents | Typical Contexts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reach | Arrive at a place or condition | Arrival or physical | alcanzar, llegar | Travel, decisions, levels |
| Achieve | Complete a desired goal or aim | Effort and success | lograr, conseguir | Ambitions, tasks, achievements |
| Attain | Obtain a status or level following effort | Result and status | alcanzar, conseguir | Rank, qualifications, goals |
