to achieve

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to achieve" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing goals, accomplishments, or the process of reaching a desired outcome. Example: "In order to achieve success, one must be dedicated and persistent in their efforts."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Since 1990, the global human development index, a measure of achievement encompassing life expectancy, the ability to acquire knowledge and to achieve a decent standard of living, has increased by more than 20%, with least developed countries increasing by 45%.

The Guardian

Instead, it seems to be one more obstacle our neediest neighbors face to achieve a decent life.

The New York Times

Many people in Tunis are still struggling to achieve a decent standard of living on low or sporadic earnings.

The Guardian

What is now needed is legislation to enable property rights and to assure that sensible forestry laws make it possible to achieve a decent living.

The Economist

The risk can be minimised by anti-flood measures but still may not be enough to make homes prove attractive to the wide number of potential buyers needed to achieve a decent price.

Independent

Now in its sixth year, it has become an essential, annual benchmark of what is thought to be the reasonable financial underpinnings of a modest life; not starvation rations, just sufficient to achieve a decent standard of living in the 21st century.

The Guardian

Of course, Songdrop will need to achieve some decent traction first.

TechCrunch

In the period with the length 4, messages are sent too slow to achieve a decent throughput.

EURASIP Journal on Embedded Systems

The standard transmission allows the GTI to achieve a decent 21 city/ 31 hwy.

TechCrunch

Now the young in China are doing much better, but many of them still find it hard, especially in their early years, to achieve a decent life.

Huffington Post

Evile chose to record Enter the Graves guitar parts using a Marshall amplifier, and spent roughly ten minutes attempting to achieve a "decent" sound.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to achieve", clearly define the goal you are trying to reach to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "to achieve" is perfectly acceptable, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "to attain" or "to accomplish" for a more engaging text.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to achieve" primarily functions as an infinitive of purpose. It connects an action with a desired result, indicating the reason or goal behind that action. Ludwig's analysis confirms its use in expressing intent and objectives.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to achieve" serves as a purpose connector, expressing intention and desired outcomes. Ludwig identifies it as grammatically correct and versatile for various contexts. While examples are currently limited, the phrase's function remains clear: to link actions with their goals. Synonyms like "to attain" and "to accomplish" can add variety to writing. Remember to clearly define your goals when using this phrase to avoid ambiguity. The absence of frequency data doesn't detract from its fundamental role in expressing purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to attain

Emphasizes reaching a high level or status.

to accomplish

Highlights completing a task successfully.

to realize

Focuses on making something actual or tangible.

to fulfill

Suggests satisfying a requirement or condition.

to obtain

Implies gaining possession of something, often through effort.

to secure

Focuses on ensuring the acquisition or possession of something.

to reach

Highlights the act of arriving at a destination or goal.

to gain

Emphasizes the acquisition of something beneficial.

to acquire

Implies gradually gaining possession or control.

to effect

Focuses on bringing about a particular result or change.

FAQs

How can I use "to achieve" in a sentence?

Use "to achieve" to introduce a goal or desired outcome. For example, "In order "to achieve" success, you must work hard."

What can I say instead of "to achieve"?

You can use alternatives like "to attain", "to accomplish", or "to realize" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "to achieve success" or "achieving success"?

Both are correct, but they function differently. "To achieve success" uses the infinitive form to express a purpose or intention, while "achieving success" uses the gerund form, functioning as a noun, often as the subject or object of a sentence. For example: "To achieve success, one must be persistent" versus "Achieving success requires dedication".

What's the difference between "to achieve" and "to accomplish"?

While both terms imply reaching a goal, ""to achieve"" is more general and can refer to reaching a state or condition, while "to accomplish" typically refers to completing a specific task or objective.