you obtain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "you obtain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of acquiring or receiving something, often in a formal or instructional context. Example: "When you obtain the necessary permits, you can begin construction on the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

How did you obtain it?

The New York Times

Q: Where did you obtain that name?

The New Yorker

You obtain information that isn't true.

The New York Times - Books

You obtain a list of mailing addresses.

The New Yorker

Where can you obtain the best price?

The Guardian - Money

"Reinvesting dividends helps you obtain shares at varying price points.

The New York Times

Would this rule change help you obtain a mortgage?

The New York Times

Place all the dressing ingredients in a blender, then blend until you obtain a smooth consistency.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Infuriatingly, most voucher codes you obtain online are out of date or prove worthless when applied.

The Guardian - Money

Rub the butter into the flour mixture until you obtain a breadcrumb-like texture.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

-Where do you obtain your weather information, and how do you use that information?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing instructions or procedures, use "you obtain" to clearly indicate how the reader should acquire necessary resources or information. For example: "To start the process, "you obtain" the application form from the website."

Common error

While "you obtain" is grammatically sound, avoid overusing it in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "you get" or "you receive" to maintain a natural tone. For example, instead of "How did "you obtain" this information?", consider "How did you get this information?"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "you obtain" functions as a directive, instructing or informing the reader on how to acquire something. This is evident in many of the examples provided by Ludwig, where the phrase is used in procedural or instructional contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

35%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "you obtain" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for indicating the act of acquiring something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, though it's best to consider the level of formality when choosing between "you obtain" and simpler alternatives like "you get". While versatile, overuse in informal settings can sound unnatural. Remember that, for technical procedures or instructions, "you obtain" clearly conveys the necessary steps for acquiring resources. By considering these nuances, writers can effectively use "you obtain" to enhance clarity and precision in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

you acquire

A more formal synonym for "obtain", implying a deliberate effort to gain something.

you receive

A more general term indicating the act of getting something, without necessarily implying effort.

you get

A more informal and versatile synonym for "obtain".

you gain

Suggests an increase or improvement as a result of acquiring something.

you secure

Implies making something safe or certain when acquiring it.

you procure

A more formal term suggesting the act of acquiring something with care or effort, often in a professional context.

you attain

Suggests achieving something, often after a significant effort.

you collect

Implies gathering multiple instances of something.

you derive

Indicates obtaining something as a result of something else.

you extract

Suggests carefully removing or taking something out of something else.

FAQs

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

The phrase "you obtain" is used to describe the action of getting or acquiring something. For example: "Before starting the experiment, "you obtain" all the necessary materials."

What are some alternatives to "you obtain"?

You can use alternatives like "you get", "you receive", or "you acquire" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "you obtain" or "you got"?

"You obtain" is more formal, while "you got" is more casual. Use "you obtain" in professional or academic writing, and "you got" in informal settings.

What's the difference between "you obtain" and "you secure"?

"You obtain" simply means you get something. "You secure" implies you've made an effort to ensure you get it and that it is now safely in your possession.