he obtains

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'he obtains' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone acquiring or achieving something, such as an object, a skill, or knowledge. For example, "John has been studying hard and he obtains a perfect score on his final exam."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

He obtains honors degree both in composition and electronic music, followed soon by a piano degree.

Stanford University

When Piotr is 43, he obtains a 3 month visa for France.

The New Yorker

The conductor knows this score by heart, and he obtains his usual painterly sounds.

The New Yorker

He obtains his variety by rounding up men who have been cheese makers in their own countries.

The New Yorker

He suggested using yellow-tail snapper, which he obtains fresh from Florida, for other striped bass recipes.

The New York Times

Only Mary remains ignorant, even when Nathan arranges to be her tutor during the fellowship he obtains for her.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

He obtained an M.E.

Tribology and Interface Engineering Series

He obtained his PhD in 1963.

The New York Times

He obtained a PhD (engineering) in Italy.

The New York Times

Next, he obtained an M.B.A. from Stanford.

The New Yorker

He obtained his flying licence there.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "he obtains", consider whether a more specific verb might add clarity or nuance, such as "acquires", "receives", or "earns", depending on the context. Choose the verb that best reflects the method or reason for the acquisition.

Common error

While "obtains" is acceptable, avoid overusing it, especially in formal contexts. Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "acquires", "secures", or "receives" to maintain reader engagement and demonstrate a broader command of language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he obtains" functions as a third-person singular present tense verb phrase. It describes the action of acquiring or getting something, which, according to Ludwig, is correct and usable in written English. The examples show its use in various contexts, indicating a wide range of objects that can be obtained.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

27%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he obtains" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for indicating the act of acquiring or receiving something. As Ludwig AI confirms, its correctness and usability are well-established. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, the phrase offers a neutral to formal tone, suitable for various writing styles. While effective, it's beneficial to consider synonyms like "acquires", "receives", or "secures" to add nuance and avoid repetition. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, writers can confidently and effectively use "he obtains" in their work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he acquires

Focuses more on gaining possession, often implying ownership or control.

he receives

Emphasizes being given something, rather than actively getting it.

he gains

Highlights the process of increasing or benefiting from something.

he secures

Implies effort and strategy in achieving possession or control.

he earns

Stresses that something is deserved or worked for.

he procures

Suggests obtaining something with effort, often through specific means.

he gets

A more general term for receiving or acquiring something.

he comes by

Indicates how something was acquired, often casually.

he lays hold of

Suggests grasping or taking possession firmly.

he picks up

Often used for skills or knowledge gained informally.

FAQs

How can I use "he obtains" in a sentence?

Use "he obtains" when you want to indicate that someone acquires or gains something, such as knowledge, permission, or an object. For instance, "He obtains valuable insights from his research" or "He obtains the necessary permit to start the project".

What are some alternatives to "he obtains"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "he acquires", "he receives", or "he secures". Each carries slightly different connotations regarding how the acquisition occurs.

Which is correct, "he obtains" or "he obtain"?

"He obtains" is correct in the present tense because it follows standard subject-verb agreement. "He obtain" is grammatically incorrect.

What is the difference between "he obtains" and "he earns"?

"He obtains" generally refers to acquiring something, while "he earns" specifically implies that something is gained through effort or work. For example, "He obtains a discount" versus "He earns a promotion".