achieve - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
achieve Word Meanings
- to successfully complete a goal
- to attain a desired result
- to reach a level of success
achieve Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
achieve Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈtʃiːv/
US
/əˈtʃiv/
achieve Word Etymology
achieve = ad- (to) + capere (to take). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine reaching for a goal and grasping it firmly, representing success.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Gripping the door handle, I push and feel the frame shift as the room opens a little. I pull a bit, adjust my stance, and turn my wrist to keep the motion steady. Each small move nudges the goal closer, and the space in front of me begins to feel manageable. Crossing the threshold, I sense that I have achieved something through steady, controlled steps toward a goal I set in my mind.
Real Context
Achieve means to successfully reach a goal or obtain a desirable result after effort, often highlighting progress, planning, and persistence. It is commonly used with nouns like goal, dream, milestone, success, or results: you can say 'to achieve a goal' or 'to achieve success'. Unlike accomplish, which can imply completing a specific task, achieve emphasizes the attainment of a desired outcome and may imply bending effort toward a long-term aim. Learners frequently mix it with succeed or accomplish, or misuse with incorrect prepositions such as 'achieve to' or 'achieve in'. Typical usage patterns include 'achieve X' and 'achieve success in/at Y'.
Usage Reminders
- Use with a goal or result
- Avoid phrases like 'achieve to' or 'achieve in'
- Compare with 'succeed' for broader success meaning
- Prefer 'achieve' to emphasize the attainment, not just activity
- You can say 'to achieve a goal' or 'to achieve success in/at' a field
- Pair with verbs like work hard to achieve; plan and persist.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing achieve with accomplish or finish/complete a task
- Thinking you must always use achievements in the form 'achieve in/at' a field
- Using 'achieve' only for big, heroic feats
- Overusing passive voice like 'has been achieved' without a clear agent
- Mistaking 'achieve' for 'succeed' in all contexts
Thinking Differences
English speakers often see achievement as tied to clearly defined goals and measurable results, with emphasis on progression and planning. Learners may overemphasize sheer effort or confuse with succeed in broad contexts.
Learning Tips
- Remember it takes a goal or result, not just an action
- Pair with verbs like work hard to achieve or plan to achieve
- Differentiate from accomplish when task completion is the focus
- Use achieve with in/at for domain-specific success
- Avoid 'achieve' with passive fragments lacking an agent
- Practice with varied collocations: achieve a milestone, achieve significant progress
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'achieve' correctly?
A.He achieved the highest score in the class.
B.She couldn't achieve the test.
C.They always achieve for the stars.
D.The team achieved to make a mistake.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'achieve'?
A.Destroy
B.Accomplish
C.Ignore
D.Expand
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'achieve'?
A.Attempt
B.Fail
C.Succeed
D.Progress
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for 'achieve'?
A.She finished her project on time.
B.He reached the top of the mountain.
C.They started a new business.
D.The team worked together to overcome challenges.
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