it obtains

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it obtains" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to indicate that something is true, valid, or applicable in a particular situation. Example: "In this case, it obtains that the rules must be followed strictly to ensure fairness."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One pending lawsuit challenges a new state law that allows the corrections department not to disclose how it obtains its execution drugs.

The Guardian

When asked where it obtains its minerals, Apple, which has done so much to persuade us that it is deft, cool and responsive, looks arrogant, lumbering and unaccountable.

The Guardian - Opinion

When a newborn infant sucks on its mother's nipple, it obtains food and thereby satisfies its hunger.

SEP

It obtains most of its raw materials, including yarn from Zimbabwe, with the actual weaving being done in the factory.

Bplans

Public Storage sidestepped the S&L; fiasco because it obtains nearly all of its cash from the capital markets.

Los Angeles Times

Washington says it obtains guarantees that suspects grabbed in this way will not be tortured.

The Guardian

But the company says the number of cells it obtains would be enough for medical uses.

The New York Times - Health

Even a crummy social service may thrive if it obtains a critical mass.

The Economist

The configuration in which it obtains a stable grasp relies on static force equilibrium.

Mechanism and Machine Theory

It obtains the solution of a structure by determining the displacements at its joints.

Structural Analysis In Theory and Practice

It obtains the solution of a structure by determining the redundant forces.

Structural Analysis In Theory and Practice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it obtains" to clearly indicate the acquisition of something, whether it's data, results, permission, or any other tangible or intangible asset. Ensure the context makes it clear what 'it' refers to.

Common error

Avoid using "it obtains" in very informal contexts. While grammatically correct, it may sound overly formal or stilted in casual conversation. Opt for more natural alternatives like "it gets" or "it finds" in such scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it obtains" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "it" is the subject and "obtains" is the main verb. This structure indicates that the subject is acquiring or receiving something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

56%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it obtains" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase that indicates the act of acquiring or receiving something. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in scientific, news, and formal business communications.

While the phrase is generally neutral to formal, it's important to consider the specific context and audience when choosing between "it obtains" and more informal alternatives like "it gets" or "it finds". Understanding its appropriate usage and potential alternatives, such as "it acquires" or "it secures", will enable you to communicate with greater precision and effectiveness.

Remember to use "it obtains" to clearly indicate the acquisition, ensuring clarity in what 'it' refers to, and consider whether the formality aligns with your intended audience and purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it acquires

Changes the verb to "acquires", emphasizing the process of gaining possession of something.

it receives

Replaces "obtains" with "receives", highlighting the act of being given something.

it gains

Substitutes "obtains" with "gains", focusing on the effort or process involved in acquiring something.

it secures

Uses "secures" instead of "obtains", suggesting a more deliberate and certain acquisition.

it attains

Replaces "obtains" with "attains", emphasizing the achievement of a goal or level.

it procures

Substitutes "obtains" with "procures", often used in formal contexts to indicate the acquisition of something through specific means.

it derives

Uses "derives" instead of "obtains", suggesting that something is obtained as a result or from a source.

it harvests

Replaces "obtains" with "harvests", particularly applicable when referring to collecting or gathering something.

it extracts

Substitutes "obtains" with "extracts", emphasizing the process of taking something out or separating it from a source.

it comes by

An idiomatic alternative to "obtains", suggesting the manner of acquisition is somewhat casual or incidental.

FAQs

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

Use "it obtains" to indicate that a subject is acquiring something, such as information, permission, or results. For example, "The device obtains data from the sensor" or "The company obtains regulatory approval".

What are some alternatives to "it obtains"?

You can use alternatives like "it acquires", "it receives", or "it gains" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "it obtains" over other similar phrases?

"It obtains" is suitable in formal or technical contexts where a precise and somewhat detached tone is desired. In less formal settings, phrases like "it gets" or "it finds" might be more appropriate.

Is "it obtains" always the best choice for expressing acquisition?

Not always. The best choice depends on the context and desired tone. While "it obtains" is grammatically sound and widely accepted, alternatives might offer a more natural or specific meaning. Consider options like "it secures", "it attains", or "it derives" depending on the particular situation.