[Editors] attained or obtained?

[Jennifer Schmitt]

One means to get or aquire (obtain). The other means to achieve something (attain).

On Oct 1, 2010, at 5:52 PM, Marilyn C Wilson wrote:

> Okay editors, do any of you know if there is there a proper distinction, archaic or otherwise, between “attain” and “obtain” as in:
>  
> “the degree attained” and “the degree obtained”   ?
>  
> They are both out there in abundance, and seem to be used interchangeably, sometimes in the same sentence or paragraph.  “Degree” seems to work with both, but “certificate” for instance only sounds right with obtained. 
>  
> Thanks, and may you all attain a great weekend --
> Marilyn   
>  
>  
>  
> Marilyn C. Wilson, PhD
> Sr. Career Development Specialist, Career Services
> MIT Global Education and Career Development
> 617-258-9149
> mcwilson at mit.edu
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