obtain a position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "obtain a position" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of securing a job or role within an organization or company. Example: "After several interviews, I was finally able to obtain a position at my dream company."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

obtain a position in which his capabilities could be suitably employed.

Princeton University

About this time Johnson tried again to obtain a position as a schoolteacher.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At this time Cibber entered upon a series of complex intrigues to obtain a position in theatre management.

Britannica

Because she had experience, she was able to obtain a position as a film cutter in what was then the largest film production enterprise in Sydney Australasian Films.

Columbia University

Conway was test-driving for Honda's Formula One team at the age of 23 but was unable to obtain a position in F1.

Independent

Without powerful friends, in time of peace, he found it no easy task to obtain a position in the service, and, after fruitless trials, he gave up the project with regret.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

He later obtained a position as a lay clerk in Manchester cathedral choir, where he stayed for the next 35 years.

The Guardian - Music

It was not until 2007 that Acosta took any action to prevent Schlozman from obtaining a position of power.

The Guardian

If you don't have a full fellowship package, consider obtaining a position as a GSI, GSR, or Reader.

University of California, Berkeley

In 1837 she made her way to Lowell and obtained a position in a textile mill.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 1876 he obtained a position with Harvard University, where he taught until 1912.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "obtain a position" in formal writing, ensure that the context clearly indicates the type of position being sought. Specificity enhances clarity and professionalism.

Common error

Avoid using "obtain a position" in very casual or informal settings where simpler terms like "get a job" would be more appropriate. Overly formal language can sound stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obtain a position" functions primarily as a verbal phrase indicating the action of acquiring a job or role. It is often used in contexts where individuals are discussing their career aspirations or achievements. As Ludwig AI states, this is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

25%

News & Media

22%

Encyclopedias

19%

Less common in

Science

19%

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "obtain a position" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression for acquiring employment. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for professional and academic writing, though less common in casual conversation. It's more formal than "get a job" and implies a deliberate effort to secure a role. Usage is prevalent across academia, news media, and encyclopedic sources. When aiming for precision in your writing, remember to specify the type of position and adapt your language to the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

secure a job

Focuses on the act of making a job certain or safe.

gain a position

Implies effort or merit in achieving the job.

find employment

Emphasizes the process of discovering and engaging in a job.

get hired

Highlights the action of being selected for a job.

land a role

Uses a more informal term, 'role', implying a specific function within an organization.

achieve employment

Emphasizes accomplishment and success in finding a job.

acquire a post

Uses the term 'post', which suggests a formal or official position.

get a placement

Highlights a structured or temporary job, similar to an internship.

procure a placement

Suggests a structured or arranged job situation, like an internship.

be appointed to a position

Focuses on a formal designation or assignment to a job.

FAQs

How can I use "obtain a position" in a sentence?

You can use "obtain a position" to describe the act of successfully getting a job. For example, "After several interviews, she was able to "obtain a position" at the company".

What are some alternatives to "obtain a position"?

Alternatives include "secure a job", "find employment", or "get hired", depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "obtain a position" rather than "get a job"?

Yes, "obtain a position" is generally more formal than "get a job". Use "obtain a position" in professional or academic contexts, and "get a job" in more casual settings.

What's the difference between "obtain a position" and "gain a position"?

"Obtain a position" simply means to get a job. "Gain a position" implies that effort or some level of difficulty was involved in "achieving it".