obtain to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "obtain to" is not correct and not usable in written English.
It seems to be a confusion of terms, as "obtain" typically does not pair with "to" in this context. Example: "I need to obtain the necessary documents for the application."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

It's a "very dangerous way to obtain to prescription-only medication", she says.

The Guardian

Then, of course, there's the instant admission any curious teenager can obtain to sites that would probably appal even the most liberal among us.

The Guardian - Opinion

The public should know exactly what access the NSA is trying to obtain to the data of these companies, and should know exactly what access these companies are providing.

The Guardian - Opinion

Jonathan Powell, who as Tony Blair's right hand did so much to broker agreement in Northern Ireland, believes two conditions have to obtain to make peace a realistic prospect.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I want these photos, as they are obviously the best evidence I could obtain to prove some of the worst aspects of my abuse," Mr. Mohamed said in the affidavit.

The New York Times

A privileged man, Ig – as he is nicknamed – suddenly finds himself with superpowers that many of us would trade an arm to obtain – to see people's darkest secrets while forcing them to confess their sins.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Search warrants were obtained to collect DNA evidence.

Huffington Post

[Investigators] have to obtain specific permission to access communications data.

The Guardian

In effect, companies obtain licenses to pollute.

Huffington Post

He tried to obtain pro-bono representation, to no avail.

The New Yorker

The state obtained title to land this year.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "obtain to" in your writing. Instead, use the verb "obtain" directly followed by the object you are acquiring (e.g., "obtain permission").

Common error

A common error is to incorrectly pair "obtain" with "to" as if it requires a preposition before the object. Remember that "obtain" is a transitive verb and doesn't need "to" before the object. Say "obtain information", not "obtain to information".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obtain to" is grammatically incorrect and does not serve a recognized function in English. Ludwig AI indicates that it is not usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "obtain to" is grammatically incorrect and should be avoided in all forms of writing and speech. As Ludwig AI points out, it's not a usable expression in English. Instead, use "obtain" directly followed by the object you wish to acquire. Alternative verbs such as "acquire", "attain", and "secure" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Remember to always use "obtain" as a transitive verb without the unnecessary preposition "to". Using correct grammar will improve clarity and credibility in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acquire

A more direct replacement, indicating the act of gaining possession.

attain

Implies achieving something through effort or persistence.

secure

Suggests obtaining something with a sense of safety or certainty.

gain

A broad term for getting something, often implying an advantage.

access

Focuses on the ability to use or reach something.

achieve

Emphasizes the successful completion of a goal or objective.

procure

Suggests obtaining something, often with effort or care.

get

A simple and informal way of saying "obtain".

come by

Implies obtaining something, often in a casual or unexpected way.

land

Informal way to say getting or obtaining something, and emphasizes the degree of fortune.

FAQs

How should I use "obtain" in a sentence?

Use "obtain" followed directly by the object you are getting. For example, "You must "obtain permission" before entering the site."

What can I say instead of "obtain to"?

Since "obtain to" is incorrect, use alternatives like "acquire", "attain", or "secure" depending on the context.

Which is correct: "obtain information" or "obtain to information"?

"Obtain information" is correct. "Obtain" is a transitive verb and does not require the preposition "to" before the object.

Is "obtain to" ever correct in English?

No, "obtain to" is not a correct or recognized phrase in standard English. It is likely a misunderstanding or misuse of the verb "obtain".