Reach vs. Achieve vs. Attain
Reach, achieve, and attain are three English verbs often used to describe the process of coming to a goal or desired state. While they are related in meaning, they differ in formality, context, and nuance. Understanding when to use each one will help you express yourself more precisely in English.
Reach
Reach is the most common and general of the three. It means to arrive at a place, stage, or point, either physically or metaphorically. It can be used for literal movement (reach the top of the mountain) as well as for more abstract goals (reach an agreement, reach a deadline).
- Reach is commonly used in everyday conversation.
- It can be followed by a noun (reach the station, reach a conclusion) or by pronouns (reach me, reach them).
- It often implies the idea of simply arriving or getting to something, without the sense of success or completion.
Achieve
Achieve means to successfully complete or accomplish something through effort, skill, or determination. It usually refers to goals that require work and is often used in more formal or academic contexts.
- Achieve is commonly found in writing, speeches, and formal situations.
- It is typically followed by nouns related to goals, results, or standards (achieve success, achieve a high score).
- It emphasizes the idea of accomplishment and merit, not just arrival.
Attain
Attain is similar to achieve but is slightly more formal and often implies reaching a high level, status, or long-term goal. It suggests a process of striving and can carry a tone of dignity or importance.
- Attain is commonly used in formal writing and literature.
- It is usually followed by nouns related to goals, status, or conditions (attain maturity, attain enlightenment).
- It emphasizes the idea of reaching something valuable or significant after effort or time.
Quick Reference
| Verb | Formality | Common Contexts | Example Usage | Nuance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reach | Neutral | Everyday, physical & abstract | reach the station; reach an agreement | Simply arrive at or get to something |
| Achieve | Formal | Goals, accomplishments, success | achieve a goal; achieve excellence | Successfully complete something through effort |
| Attain | More Formal | Long-term goals, status, ideals | attain adulthood; attain a dream | Reach something significant after striving |
Summary
- Use reach for general arrival or contact.
- Use achieve for accomplishing goals through effort.
- Use attain for reaching important or elevated goals, especially in formal contexts.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
