obtain

Definitions

ob- (toward, onto) + tain (hold) = to get a hold of, to reach toward something and grasp it. Obtain stresses effort or a formal process — you obtain a license, a permit, evidence — more than you simply 'get' it.

Common Collocations

• 1.obtain permission获得许可
• 2.obtain a license取得执照
• 3.obtain evidence获取证据
• 4.obtain a degree取得学位
• 5.obtain consent获得同意

Example Sentences

• 1.

  You must obtain written permission before reprinting the article.

• 2.

  The detective obtained crucial evidence from a witness.

• 3.

  Different rules obtain in different countries.

Easily Confused

obtain vs get vs acquire: get is the everyday word (get a coffee). obtain is more formal and implies effort or a procedure (obtain a visa). acquire suggests gradual building-up, often of skills, property, or companies (acquire a taste for, acquire a firm). Use obtain in official or written contexts.