achieving the record

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "achieving the record" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the act of reaching or surpassing a specific benchmark or standard, often in the context of sports, achievements, or milestones. Example: "The athlete is focused on achieving the record for the fastest marathon time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

But achieving the record wasn't easy.

Huffington Post

Melua later described achieving the record as "the most surreal gig I have ever done".

Wikipedia

Even after achieving the record, Hershiser expressed regret: "Because of respect for Don and respect for the record, I don't think I should have walked to the mound in a situation where I'm supposed to be resting for the playoffs, just to beat a record.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Roddick was around when Sampras achieved the record.

The Guardian - Sport

It was the first time in six years where there was a gap: we'd achieved the record deal, we'd recorded the album and promoted it.

Independent

The track has achieved the record on its 69th day on sale in the UK, making it the biggest-selling single of 2013 so far.

Independent

Cueto got his 76th try in Sale's 21-16 win over Exeter to achieve the record.

BBC

NASA's Dawn spacecraft, for example, used ion propulsion and achieved the record of highest velocity change of any spacecraft.

TechCrunch

"I really didn't care [about the record] - I hadn't set out to achieve the record.

BBC

The result was that total government outlays in the U.S. achieved the record level of 36.9% of GDP in 1986.

Forbes

Stephen himself attended the event and the organisers said he was "so excited" to have achieved the record.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing accomplishments, use "achieving the record" to highlight the successful attainment of a specific benchmark. Ensure the context clearly defines the record being referenced for maximum impact.

Common error

Avoid using "achieving the record" when you mean to describe creating a new record. "Achieving the record" refers to matching or equalling an existing one, while "setting the record" denotes establishing a new high standard.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "achieving the record" functions as a gerund phrase acting as a noun, describing the act of successfully reaching a previously established standard or benchmark. As supported by Ludwig, the expression is deemed correct and appropriate for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "achieving the record" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that describes the act of equaling or surpassing a specific, pre-existing benchmark. As Ludwig confirms, it is well-suited for various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and general interest writing. While semantically similar phrases exist, such as "setting the record" or "breaking the record", it's important to use "achieving the record" when the primary focus is on reaching an existing standard, rather than establishing a new one. Remember to clearly define the record being referenced for maximum clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

setting the record

Focuses on establishing a new benchmark rather than simply reaching an existing one.

breaking the record

Implies surpassing a previously established record, highlighting the act of exceeding.

attaining the record

Emphasizes the act of reaching or obtaining the record, suggesting effort and accomplishment.

securing the record

Highlights the act of firmly gaining or ensuring possession of the record.

establishing the record

Focuses on the creation and validation of a new record.

claiming the record

Suggests a sense of entitlement or right to the record, often after a competition.

earning the record

Emphasizes the effort and merit involved in obtaining the record.

capturing the record

Implies seizing or taking possession of the record, often with a sense of competition.

bettering the record

Directly refers to improving upon an existing record, making it superior.

surpassing the record

Indicates exceeding or going beyond the current record.

FAQs

How can I use "achieving the record" in a sentence?

You can use "achieving the record" to describe the act of equaling or surpassing a particular benchmark. For instance, "The athlete celebrated "achieving the record" in the 100-meter sprint".

What's the difference between "achieving the record" and "breaking the record"?

"Achieving the record" indicates reaching or equaling an existing record, whereas "breaking the record" implies surpassing the previous best. One is matching, the other is improving.

Which is more appropriate: "achieving the record" or "setting a record"?

The correct choice depends on the context. Use "achieving the record" when someone equals an existing top performance. Use "setting a record" when a new, higher standard is established.

Are there synonyms for "achieving the record"?

Yes, synonyms include "attaining the record", "securing the record", or "reaching the record", each with slightly different nuances in meaning.