obtain this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "obtain this" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to acquiring or getting something specific, often in a formal or instructional context. Example: "To complete your registration, please ensure you obtain this document before the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You can't obtain this kind of information.

The New Yorker

And whence did we obtain this knowledge?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Chefs obtain this color most readily with roasted meat stock.

The New York Times - Food

Was this the only way to obtain this information?

The New Yorker

You may obtain this information from a local nature center, environmental protection program or conservation organization.

The New York Times

The government watchdog's report notes that the HCA is working to obtain this evidence.

The Guardian

"These children will live with this legacy which is why we have to obtain this apology..

The Guardian

"How did you obtain this photograph?" I asked, holding it to the window.

The New Yorker

The plaintiff can usually obtain this proof by means of an ad communication test.

Harvard Business Review

Resources to obtain this perspective include national and international disaster databases.

Britannica

Processing the project's raw data to obtain this functional information has been an immense effort.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "obtain this" when you want to convey a sense of formality or precision in acquiring something, particularly in instructions, reports, or legal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "obtain this" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "get this" or "find this" are often more appropriate and sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obtain this" functions primarily as a transitive verb phrase, where "obtain" is the verb and "this" serves as the direct object. It signifies the action of acquiring or getting something specific. Ludwig shows examples across varied contexts, highlighting its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Academia

23%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "obtain this" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to convey the action of acquiring something specific. Ludwig AI indicates it is frequently found in news, science, and academic contexts, suggesting a formal register. While "obtain this" is correct and usable, it is advisable to consider the context and audience, opting for simpler alternatives like "get this" in more informal situations. Remember to reserve "obtain this" for scenarios where precision and formality are valued.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acquire this

Changes the verb to a more formal synonym, emphasizing the act of gaining possession.

get this

Replaces "obtain" with a simpler, more informal verb.

secure this

Emphasizes the effort or process of making something safe and guaranteed.

procure this

Implies obtaining something with care or effort, often through official channels.

attain this

Suggests reaching a goal or achieving something after a period of effort.

achieve this

Focuses on the accomplishment of getting something through hard work.

access this

Highlights the ability or permission to reach or use something.

gain this

A more general term for getting something, often implying an advantage.

receive this

Focuses on the act of being given something.

gather this

Implies collecting information or items from multiple sources.

FAQs

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

Use "obtain this" when referring to acquiring something specific, especially in a formal or instructional context. For example, "To complete your registration, please ensure you "obtain this" document before the deadline."

What are some alternatives to "obtain this"?

You can use alternatives like "acquire this" or "get this", depending on the desired level of formality.

Is "obtain this" appropriate for informal communication?

While grammatically correct, "obtain this" can sound overly formal in casual settings. Consider using "get this" or "find this" for a more natural tone.

What is the difference between "obtain this" and "receive this"?

"Obtain this" suggests an active effort to acquire something, whereas "receive this" implies that something is given to you without significant effort on your part.