it was attainable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was attainable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing something that was possible to achieve or reach in the past. Example: "Despite the challenges, the goal was attainable with the right resources and determination."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Several characteristics contributed to the popularity of the script: it was lively yet disciplined in appearance; it was responsive to a variety of pen nib styles and tolerant of different writing speeds; and it was attainable by the novice and gratifying to the adept.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For the individual motorist, it was attainable and passed for sporty in a tightly controlled automotive industry.

The New York Times

"After the first one, I'd be lying to you if I said I didn't think it was attainable today".

The New York Times - Sports

I didn't think it was attainable because I was full of myself, thinking, "Oh, I'm 19, I'm mature".

Huffington Post

"We know that the messages that really moved people to get enrolled was one of affordability, that there is financial help, and just to help people understand that it was attainable for them.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

It is equally clear: evolution is definitely preferable if it is attainable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Most jobs require a college degree these days, a proposition that's becoming increasingly unaffordable even if it is attainable.

TechCrunch

Learning-theoretic characterization theorems specify the structure of problems in which efficient inquiry is possible, and what kinds of inferences lead to inductive success when it is attainable.

SEP

And it is evident to me that as a rational being I am bound to aim at good generally,—so far as it is attainable by my efforts, not at a particular part of it".

SEP

This Aristotle calls the middling regime: a political, because sociological, mean between oligarchy and democracy, in which the middle classes hold the preponderance of both wealth distribution and political power—hence it is attainable through reform of either an oligarchy or a democracy, the most prevalent constitutions among the Greeks.

SEP

Claim what you want and believe it is attainable.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was attainable", ensure the context clearly defines what "it" refers to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader. For clarity, specify the subject—for example, "the objective was attainable" rather than just "it was attainable".

Common error

Avoid overusing "it was attainable" in passive constructions that obscure the actor or method. Instead of "success was attainable", consider "the team could attain success with focused effort" to emphasize agency and action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was attainable" functions as a descriptive statement, indicating that something was realistically achievable in the past. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. Examples in Ludwig show its use across various contexts, describing goals, conditions, or states.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was attainable" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to express that something could have been realistically achieved. As Ludwig AI points out, its applicability spans numerous contexts, including news, science, and business, indicating its versatility. When using this phrase, ensure the subject is clear to avoid ambiguity. While generally neutral in register, be mindful of the tone and consider synonyms like "it was achievable" or "it was possible" for nuanced expression. Avoiding overuse in passive constructions will strengthen your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was within reach

Replaces "attainable" with "within reach", emphasizing proximity and possibility.

it was achievable

Substitutes "attainable" with "achievable", highlighting the successful outcome.

it was feasible

Replaces "attainable" with "feasible", focusing on practicality and suitability.

it was possible

Uses "possible" instead of "attainable", indicating a potential outcome without emphasizing effort.

it was realistic

Replaces "attainable" with "realistic", suggesting that the goal was grounded in reality.

it was viable

Substitutes "attainable" with "viable", stressing sustainability and long-term success.

it could be done

Uses a different structure, emphasizing the action of accomplishing the goal.

it was on the cards

Employs an idiomatic expression, indicating a likely or predetermined outcome.

it was in the realm of possibility

More formal and emphasizes the potential for achievement.

success was within grasp

Focuses on the positive outcome (success) and uses a more figurative expression.

FAQs

How can I use "it was attainable" in a sentence?

You can use "it was attainable" to describe a goal, target, or achievement that could have been realistically reached in the past. Example: "Despite the difficulties, the summit finish "it was attainable" with perseverance".

What are some alternatives to "it was attainable"?

Alternatives include "it was achievable", "it was possible", or "it was within reach", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it was attainable" formal or informal?

"It was attainable" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, as it's a straightforward and grammatically correct phrase. However, very formal writing might benefit from a more sophisticated synonym like "it was feasible".

What does "attainable" mean?

"Attainable" means capable of being reached or achieved. When something is attainable, "it was possible" to get or do it, usually through effort or skill.