Achieve vs. Attain vs. AccomplishÂ

These verbs all refer to reaching a goal or succeeding in doing something through effort. However, while ‘achieve’ emphasizes reaching a goal, ‘attain’ is concerned with reaching a specific level or position and ‘accomplish’ focuses of completing a task. This lesson will further clarify the difference between these three verbs.

Difference in Emphasis

‘Achieve’ refers to successfully reaching a personal goal, objective, or outcome through effort or determination. It emphasizes the act of overcoming obstacles or challenges to reach a final result. ‘Attain’ is similar to ‘achieve’, but it emphasizes the acquisition of a desired state, position, or level where there may still be room for progress or where the goal is to reach even higher levels. It is concerned with gaining or reaching something that is considered desirable or valuable through growth and development. ‘Accomplish’, on the other hand, refers to successfully completing or carrying out a task, assignment, or objective. It emphasizes the sense of fulfillment of specific responsibilities, assignments, or milestones. Here are some examples:

She worked hard to achieve her dream of becoming a professional musician.

He achieved his goal of running a marathon.

After years of hard work, she attained a leadership position in her company.

He studied diligently to attain a high level of proficiency in the foreign language.

The team accomplished their mission of delivering aid to the disaster-stricken region.

They worked together to accomplish the plan ahead of schedule.