Translation guide
The English verb 'attain' means to achieve or reach something, often after effort. In Japanese, the best translation depends on what is being attained: a goal, a skill, a state, or a physical height.
To successfully reach a desired objective, such as a target, ambition, or outcome, through effort.
The most common and versatile verb for achieving a goal, target, or result. Used in business, personal, and academic contexts.
彼は目標を達成した。
He attained his goal.
It's difficult to attain the sales target.
Emphasizes reaching a point or level, often after a process. Used for abstract goals like a level of understanding or a stage.
彼は悟りの境地に到達した。
He attained a state of enlightenment.
Implies accomplishing something significant through determination and effort. Often used for great achievements or life goals.
彼はついに夢を成し遂げた。
He finally attained his dream.
To gain a skill, knowledge, or personal quality through learning or practice.
Literally 'to attach to one's body', meaning to acquire a skill, habit, or knowledge through practice. Very natural for skills and languages.
彼は英語力を身につけた。
He attained proficiency in English.
良い習慣を身につけることが大切だ。
It's important to attain good habits.
Formal term for learning or mastering a skill, technique, or knowledge. Common in educational or technical contexts.
彼はプログラミング技術を習得した。
He attained programming skills.
Means to acquire or obtain something, often through effort. Can be used for skills, rights, or qualifications, but sounds slightly formal.
彼は資格を獲得した。
He attained a qualification.
To arrive at a high place, such as a summit or a specific point.
Used for reaching a physical destination, especially after a journey or climb. Neutral and common.
彼らは山頂に到達した。
They attained the summit.
Similar to 到達する but more concise. Often used for reaching a point, level, or number, including physical locations.
気温が40度に達した。
The temperature attained 40 degrees.
To reach a particular state, such as happiness, peace, or maturity.
Often used in formal or literary contexts to mean reaching a state or conclusion. Common in set phrases.
彼は幸福の絶頂に至った。
He attained the peak of happiness.
The simple verb 'to become' is often the most natural way to express attaining a state in everyday Japanese.
彼は有名になった。
He attained fame.
達成する focuses on achieving a goal or target, often with a sense of completion. 到達する emphasizes the process of reaching a point or level, whether physical or abstract. Use 達成する for objectives and 到達する for destinations or stages.
English 'attain' is often used with abstract nouns like 'happiness' or 'success'. In Japanese, it's more natural to use simpler verbs like なる (to become) or 得る (to obtain) rather than forcing a direct translation. For example, 'attain happiness' is usually 幸せになる, not 幸福を達成する.