fail to obtain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fail to obtain" is correct and can be used in written English.
You could use this phrase in a sentence like, "Unfortunately, he failed to obtain the desired result."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Even when the police become involved, customers fail to obtain full refunds.

The Guardian - Money

Two-thirds of adults fail to obtain the recommended 8 hours of nightly sleep.

University of California, Berkeley

Students who fail to obtain this approval risk not receiving academic credit for the course.

Columbia University

The first relates to UK chiropractors who frequently fail to obtain informed consent before treating their patients.

The Guardian

In other words, if the parties fail to obtain antitrust clearance, they each owe the other nothing.

The New York Times

Should Margarito fail to obtain a license, Arum said the fight would take place in Monterrey, Mexico.

The New York Times - Sports

However the previous reported numerical methods in some references often cost lots of computation or fail to obtain such orbits.

Acta Astronautica

Conventional treatments fail to obtain sufficient slip factors on stainless steel plates owing to the passive film on its surface.

Construction and Building Materials

Due to these constraints, current analog routers often fail to obtain a routing solution that the designer wants.

Integration, the VLSI Journal

In Australia, for example, if you fail to obtain a tax file number on arrival you will pay a heavier rate of tax.

The Guardian - Money

Last year, Utah enacted a law that reinstated the firing squad as a secondary method should the state fail to obtain the drugs needed for a lethal injection.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "fail to obtain", consider the context to ensure it accurately conveys the intended meaning of not achieving or acquiring something. Vary your language by using synonyms like "not succeed in getting" or "be unable to secure" to make your writing more engaging.

Common error

While "fail to obtain" is grammatically correct, overusing it can make your writing sound repetitive. In less formal contexts, consider using more direct and simpler alternatives such as "not get" or "miss out on".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fail to obtain" functions as a verb phrase indicating a lack of success in acquiring something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used. Examples show its function in describing missed opportunities or unmet requirements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

35%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fail to obtain" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that indicates a lack of success in acquiring something. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage across various contexts. While it is generally suitable for neutral to formal communication, consider using simpler alternatives like "not get" in informal settings. The phrase is particularly prevalent in news, scientific, and academic writing. Be mindful of overuse and explore synonyms like "not succeed in getting" to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not succeed in getting

Emphasizes the lack of success in acquiring something.

be unsuccessful in acquiring

Highlights the lack of success and the act of acquiring.

fall short of securing

Focuses on not reaching the point of securing something.

miss out on acquiring

Suggests losing the opportunity to acquire something.

be unable to secure

Emphasizes the inability to get or secure something.

prove incapable of obtaining

Highlights the lack of capability in getting something.

lack the ability to acquire

Stresses the absence of the ability to acquire.

be denied the opportunity to get

Focuses on the denial of a chance to get something.

forgo the chance to acquire

Highlights the voluntary passing up of an opportunity to acquire something.

relinquish the possibility of securing

Implies giving up a potential opportunity to secure something.

FAQs

What does "fail to obtain" mean?

"Fail to obtain" means not succeeding in getting or acquiring something. It indicates a lack of achievement or success in acquiring a specific object, status, or outcome.

How can I use "fail to obtain" in a sentence?

You can use "fail to obtain" in sentences like: "If you "fail to obtain a visa", you will not be reimbursed" or "Many students "fail to obtain their degrees" even after six years".

What are some alternatives to "fail to obtain"?

Some alternatives to "fail to obtain" include "not succeed in getting", "be unsuccessful in acquiring", or "fall short of securing". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "fail to obtain" formal or informal?

"Fail to obtain" is generally considered more formal. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "not get" or "miss out on" might be more appropriate.