has obtained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "has obtained" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone has acquired or received something in the past and that this action has relevance to the present. Example: "She has obtained the necessary qualifications to apply for the job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The Guardian has obtained a full copy.

The Guardian

But Hahne has obtained professional help.

The Washington Post

Emmerson has obtained access to senior officials controlling drone policy.

The Guardian

The attorney general has obtained $40,000 for the drivers.

The New York Times

And because of that admission Pettitte has obtained different representation.

The New York Times - Sports

Correspondent has obtained some material unseen in the UK.

The Guardian - Business

It is unclear whether he has obtained an attorney.

The Washington Post

Quarry Village has obtained an exception from Hayward.

The New York Times - Science

These days, it has obtained an entirely new meaning.

University of California, Berkeley

Hellman has obtained financing commitments from Barclays Capital, GE Commercial Finance and RBS Greenwich Capital.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

We have obtained some equipment.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "has obtained" to clearly indicate the successful acquisition of something, whether it's a physical object, a skill, or a status. Ensure the context makes it clear how and why the item was obtained for maximum impact.

Common error

Avoid using "has obtained" in simple contexts where a more direct verb like "got" or "received" would suffice. Overusing formal language can make your writing sound unnecessarily stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has obtained" functions as a verb phrase within a sentence, typically forming part of the present perfect tense. It indicates that an action of acquiring or receiving something has been completed at some point in the past and has relevance to the present. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

23%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "has obtained" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the successful acquisition of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news, academic, and scientific contexts. While interchangeable with alternatives like "has acquired" or "has received", it is essential to consider the subtle nuances each brings. Avoid overuse in simple contexts to maintain a natural writing style. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively incorporate "has obtained" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has acquired

Focuses on the act of gaining possession or control, emphasizing ownership or mastery.

has received

Emphasizes the act of being given something, often implying a formal or official process.

has gained

Highlights the effort or process involved in acquiring something, suggesting improvement or progress.

has secured

Implies effort and competition in obtaining something, suggesting it was difficult to achieve.

has achieved

Focuses on the successful completion of a goal, emphasizing accomplishment and merit.

has earned

Stresses that something was obtained through hard work and effort.

has come into possession of

Formal way to express that someone now owns something.

is in receipt of

Formal and passive way of saying someone has received something.

has been granted

Indicates formal approval or permission to obtain something.

has taken possession of

Highlights taking control or ownership, potentially with legal or formal implications.

FAQs

How do I use "has obtained" in a sentence?

Use "has obtained" to indicate that someone has successfully acquired or received something. For example, "She "has obtained" a degree in engineering" or "The company "has obtained" the necessary permits".

What are some alternatives to "has obtained"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "has acquired", "has received", "has gained", or "has secured". Each alternative carries a slightly different nuance.

When is it appropriate to use "has obtained" instead of "got"?

"Has obtained" is more formal than "got". Use "has obtained" in professional, academic, or formal writing. "Got" is more appropriate for informal or casual contexts.

Is there a difference between "has obtained" and "has achieved"?

"Has obtained" implies receiving or acquiring something, while "has achieved" emphasizes successful accomplishment through effort. For example, you "obtain" a license, but you "achieve" a goal.