Attainable
/əˈteɪnəbl/
adjectiveIntermediateCommonGeneral
Meaning
Questions
Definitions
1
Possible to achieve; reachable.
/əˈteɪnəbl/
adjectiveneutralIntermediate
General
Able to be achieved or accomplished.
The summit was attainable only with proper equipment and training.
💡 Simply: Something that can be reached or achieved.
More Examples
2
His ambitions, while lofty, were ultimately attainable.
How It's Used
Goal Setting
"The company set attainable sales goals for the new quarter."
Education
"Students should be given attainable assignments to build their confidence."
From Middle English *atteinable*, from Old French *ateignables*, from *ateindre* "to attain, reach, arrive at", from Vulgar Latin *attingere*, from Latin *attingere* (to touch, reach).
The word has maintained a consistent meaning throughout its usage, largely focused on the possibility of achievement.
Memory tip
Think of 'attaining' something – if it's attainable, you can attain it.
Practice
Base: attain
atainableattainableeattainible
Usage
20%Spoken
80%Written