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attainment

B2
noun

Pronunciation

UK

  • /ətˈeɪnmənt/

US

  • /əˈteɪnmənt/

Description

Attainment isn't just having something; it is the act of successfully reaching a goal or achieving something desired. Think of a mountain climber—their attainment isn't simply standing on the peak, but all the effort and skill that got them there. It speaks to what you've worked for and finally secured. A high school diploma is an attainment, as is mastering a difficult musical instrument. Sometimes it refers to a level of success or proficiency: "She reached a high level of attainment in French."

Attainment often implies effort and perseverance. You don't stumble upon attainment; you earn it. It is about what you've done, not just what you have. A character in a novel might strive for personal attainment, seeking self-improvement through hardship.

Examples

  1. 1

    Personal achievement

    She spent years studying to reach that level of attainment.

  2. 2

    School performance

    The school is trying to raise attainment in reading and math.

    • Pattern

      attainment in + subject

      achievement in that subject

  3. 3

    Education level

    Children from wealthier families often have higher educational attainment.

    • Phrase

      educational attainment

      the level of education someone reaches

  4. 4

    Academic success

    Graduating at the top of her class was a remarkable attainment.

  5. 5

    Spiritual growth

    For him, spiritual attainment mattered more than money or status.

Forms and spellings

2 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • attainmentnoun

Forms

  • attainmentspluralnoun