Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.
Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
obtaining to
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "obtaining to" is not correct and does not have a usable meaning in written English.
It seems to be a misinterpretation or incorrect combination of words. Example: "I am obtaining to the point of understanding the issue." (This should be rephrased for clarity.)
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
News & Media
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
4 human-written examples
Two months later, a businessman pleaded guilty to obtaining to false citizenship papers, which he used to get a security clearance from the Department of Defense so that he could receive preferential small-business contracts.
News & Media
Yang et al. [3] proposed an analytical solution for obtaining to strain stress distribution of adhesively composite joints under tension.
Science
In addition, the 10% excess of CDI was used for all β-CD-organosilanes obtaining to ensure complete activation since the purity of CDI is variable due to its extreme sensitivity to water vapor.
Science
After all, if the proper ethical unit is a self, say, unified by psychological connectedness, which obtains by degrees, that means that my unity with many others — and with future stages of myself — will be only partial, obtaining to various people in varying degrees.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
55 human-written examples
It's a "very dangerous way to obtain to prescription-only medication", she says.
News & Media
As before, consent will always be obtained to use personal data for marketing purposes.
News & Media
Appier (4-1) Aaron SeleSele (4-2) have served the reinforcement role they were obtained to fill.
News & Media
and is obtained to be 2.68.
Search warrants were obtained to collect DNA evidence.
News & Media
Points and rewards are obtained to entice you to buy groceries..
News & Media
A sample of the lump is obtained to see if the cells are cancerous.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Avoid using "obtaining to" in formal writing. Opt for clearer and more grammatically correct alternatives such as "obtaining" or "relating to" depending on the context.
Common error
A frequent mistake is assuming "obtain" requires a preposition like "to" before an object. "Obtain" is a transitive verb and directly takes an object. Saying "obtaining to" can create grammatical errors and confusion.
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
1.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "obtaining to" is generally grammatically incorrect and doesn't serve a recognized function in standard English. Based on Ludwig's analysis, its usage often stems from misunderstanding the verb's proper complementation.
Frequent in
News & Media
33%
Science
67%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Academia
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "obtaining to" is generally considered grammatically incorrect and should be avoided in formal writing. While some instances appear in news and scientific contexts, these are likely errors or non-standard usages. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase often results from a misunderstanding of how the verb "obtain" should be used. It's better to opt for alternatives like "acquiring", "getting", "relating to", or "pertaining to" to convey your intended meaning accurately and effectively. The proper and standard form of the verb is obtain, without the preposition "to".
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
acquiring something
Focuses on the act of gaining possession of something.
getting something
A more general term for receiving or obtaining.
achieving something
Emphasizes the successful attainment of a goal.
securing something
Highlights the act of making something safe or certain.
gaining access to something
Focuses on obtaining the right or ability to use something.
relating to something
Expresses a connection or association with something.
pertaining to something
Indicates relevance or connection to a specific subject.
in connection with something
Shows an association or relationship with something else.
with regard to something
Introduces a specific topic or aspect that is being considered.
concerning something
Similar to "relating to", but can also imply importance or relevance.
FAQs
What is the correct way to use "obtain" in a sentence?
The verb "obtain" is transitive, meaning it directly takes an object. For example, "He obtained a visa" is correct, while "He obtained to a visa" is incorrect. Use "obtain" followed directly by the object you are acquiring.
What can I say instead of "obtaining to"?
Depending on the intended meaning, you can use alternatives such as "acquiring", "getting", or phrases like "relating to" or "pertaining to".
Is "obtaining to" grammatically correct?
No, "obtaining to" is generally not considered grammatically correct in standard English. It's often a misinterpretation or incorrect combination of words. Ludwig AI marks it as incorrect.
When might I see "obtaining to" used?
"Obtaining to" might appear in informal writing or as a non-standard usage. However, it is advisable to avoid it in formal or academic contexts. It can also be a typo, and it's better to use "obtain".
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
1.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested