Two common French verbs related to success and accomplishment are atteindre and réussir. Both can be translated as “to achieve” in English, but they are used in different contexts and have distinct meanings.
Usage
- Atteindre means “to reach” or “to attain.” It refers to physically or metaphorically reaching a point, goal, or level.
- Réussir means “to succeed” or “to pass.” It focuses on succeeding in a task, goal, or challenge.
Examples
- Atteindre : Atteindre le sommet (reach the summit), atteindre un objectif (attain a goal).
- Réussir : Réussir un examen (pass an exam), réussir sa carrière (succeed in one’s career).
Tips
- Use atteindre when talking about reaching a specific point or goal.
- Use réussir when talking about succeeding at something or doing something well.
When should you choose atteindre versus réussir in a sentence?
- Use atteindre when talking about reaching a target or point.
- Use réussir when talking about succeeding at or completing a task.
The choice depends on whether the focus is on the endpoint (atteindre) or the successful completion (réussir).
Summary
- Atteindre = to reach or attain a goal.
- Réussir = to succeed or pass at something.
Context
- Atteindre is used when the focus is on reaching a specific point, level, or goal. It can be used with physical locations, numerical targets, or abstract objectives.
- Réussir is used when the focus is on succeeding in an endeavor, completing a task successfully, or passing an exam. It implies a positive outcome or achievement.
Usage
- Atteindre + direct object (goal, level, place)
- Réussir + à + infinitive (to succeed in doing something) or + direct object (exams, challenges)
Tips
- Remember:
- Atteindre = reach/attain (think “reaching a point”)
- Réussir = succeed (think “achieving success”)
- Réussir is often followed by “à” + infinitive (e.g., réussir à convaincre).
When should you choose atteindre versus réussir in a sentence?
- Use atteindre when talking about reaching a target or point.
- Use réussir when talking about succeeding at or completing a task.
The choice depends on whether the focus is on the endpoint (atteindre) or the successful completion (réussir).
Examples
| French | English |
|---|---|
| Atteindre un objectif | To reach a goal |
| Atteindre 100 kilomètres | To reach 100 kilometers |
| Réussir un examen | To pass an exam |
| Réussir à convaincre quelqu’un | To succeed in convincing someone |
In short: Use atteindre when you talk about reaching/attaining, and réussir when you talk about succeeding.
Flashcards (1 of 4)
- English: To reach a goal
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
