achieve

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'achieve' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing the accomplishment of a goal, task or objective. Example: He achieved his goal of running a marathon in under four hours.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Because Republicans are trying, for the third time since he took office, to use economic blackmail to achieve a goal they lack the votes to achieve through the normal legislative process.

The New York Times

"When the UK plays an active leading role in Europe we can achieve enormous things which we simply could not on our own," Clarke said.

The Guardian

There are promises on tax avoidance and evasion, something promised by successive governments which is often easier to announce than to achieve.

The Guardian - Opinion

Her commitment to fair wages and the barriers she will chip away to achieve them are fascinating to hear.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We should now consider why African countries must invest in science and technology, how science creates wealth, and what Africa must do to achieve this "new liberation" – using its untapped natural wealth, human resources, and effective policy execution to create explosive wealth that by-passes western-led globalisation and creates national and continental technology hubs.

The Guardian

To achieve this it is necessary to vote against the possibility of a referendum, and to remove the spectre of leaving the EU from the political horizon.

The Guardian

What are you hoping to achieve, what do you think you can achieve for Peter Greste?

The Guardian

He said that the government was committed to securing the maximum number of convictions in terrorism and serious crime cases: "The experience of other countries is that the use of evidence gathered through interception may help to achieve that.

The Guardian

He has not had the same opportunities to develop his athletic prowess as those in wealthier and more stable countries, and now that he has lost everything all he is asking for is a chance to train and achieve his potential.

The Guardian

Your supporters are your brand It's amazing what people can achieve when you point them in the right direction.

The Guardian

"The human eye can spot it because we're so used to looking at our own reflection, so we subconsciously know all those tiny details and it's that final 5% of realism that takes the most time to achieve.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "achieve" to emphasize the successful outcome of a process or effort. Be specific about what is being achieved to provide clarity and impact in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "achieve" repetitively in close proximity within your writing. Vary your vocabulary by incorporating synonyms like "accomplish", "attain", or "realize" to enhance readability and prevent monotony.

Linguistic Context

The word "achieve" functions primarily as a verb, indicating the successful completion of a task or the attainment of a goal. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Examples in the provided data illustrate its use in various contexts, from personal aspirations to organizational objectives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "achieve" is a versatile verb used to denote the successful accomplishment of a goal or objective. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical status, and the provided examples from reputable news sources, such as The Guardian and The New York Times, demonstrate its prevalent use across various contexts. While its register is generally neutral, "achieve" finds frequent application in formal, business, and news settings. When aiming for variety, synonyms like "accomplish", "attain", and "realize" can serve as effective alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accomplish

Implies completing something successfully, often with effort.

attain

Suggests reaching a specific goal or level, often after a period of striving.

realize

Focuses on making something actual or bringing it into being.

fulfill

Highlights satisfying a requirement or bringing a desire to completion.

complete

Emphasizes bringing something to a finished state.

execute

Focuses on carrying out a plan or order effectively.

perform

Highlights the act of doing something, often in a skillful manner.

secure

Suggests obtaining something, often through effort or competition.

reach

Implies arriving at a destination or achieving a certain point.

obtain

Focuses on gaining possession of something.

FAQs

How can I use "achieve" in a sentence?

The verb "achieve" is used to express the successful accomplishment of a goal or objective. For example, "She worked hard to "achieve" her dreams" or "The company was able to "achieve" record sales this quarter".

What are some synonyms for "achieve"?

Alternatives to "achieve" include "accomplish", "attain", "realize", "fulfill", and "complete". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "achieve a goal" or "achieve to a goal"?

"Achieve a goal" is the correct phrasing. The verb "achieve" typically takes a direct object, so you "achieve" something rather than "achieve" to something.

What's the difference between "achieve" and "attain"?

While both "achieve" and "attain" signify reaching a goal, "achieve" often implies overcoming obstacles or putting in effort, while "attain" suggests reaching a higher level or status.