achieve

verb

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\ ə-ˈchēv

achieved; achieving

Definition of achieve

transitive verb

1 : to carry out successfully : accomplish achieve a gradual increase in production

2 : to get or attain as the result of exertion : reach achieved a high degree of skill achieved greatness

intransitive verb

: to attain a desired end or aim : become successful

Other Words from achieve Synonyms Choose the Right Synonym More Example Sentences Learn More about achieve

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Choose the Right Synonym for achieve

perform, execute, discharge, accomplish, achieve, effect, fulfill mean to carry out or into effect. perform implies action that follows established patterns or procedures or fulfills agreed-upon requirements and often connotes special skill. performed gymnastics execute stresses the carrying out of what exists in plan or in intent. executed the hit-and-run discharge implies execution and completion of appointed duties or tasks. discharged his duties accomplish stresses the successful completion of a process rather than the means of carrying it out. accomplished everything they set out to do achieve adds to accomplish the implication of conquered difficulties. achieve greatness effect adds to achieve an emphasis on the inherent force in the agent capable of surmounting obstacles. effected sweeping reforms fulfill implies a complete realization of ends or possibilities. fulfilled their ambitions

Examples of achieve in a Sentence

a diet that achieves dramatic results With much practice, she has achieved a high level of skill. They achieved high scores on their math tests. We give students the skills they need in order to achieve in college.

Recent Examples on the Web This tree also comes with 550 warm lights to help achieve a cozy glow—no additional shopping required. — Mark Brezinski, USA TODAY, "10 top-rated artificial Christmas trees you can buy on Amazon," 13 Nov. 2019 As evidence of that pride, his wife went on a Twitter binge, boasting that Legend’s new status helped her achieve her own dream. — Melissa Locker, Time, "Chrissy Teigen Kicked the Trolling Into High Gear as Soon As Her Husband Was Named Sexiest Man Alive," 13 Nov. 2019 Britain values the American Alliance, which achieved such prodigies under Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt, and again under Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan. — Conrad Black, National Review, "A Post-Post-Cold-War NATO," 13 Nov. 2019 Having become interested in electronics while in the service, Chris also found time to earn his amateur radio license, ultimately achieving its highest licensing level, Extra Class. — orlandosentinel.com, "Deaths in Central Florida: 11/13," 13 Nov. 2019 In its end notes, the movie connects the handover directly to India's achieving independence from Britain in 1947. — Mark Jenkins, Houston Chronicle, "‘Warrior Queen of Jhansi’ is pretty but dull," 13 Nov. 2019 Engadget reports that Formula One (F1) will achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. — Caroline Delbert, Popular Mechanics, "Formula One's Path to Total Carbon Neutrality," 12 Nov. 2019 But perhaps the most remarkable thing Garrett achieves with Full Disclosure is the compassionate portrayal of people who are usually rendered invisible not only in Y.A but in life. — Clarkisha Kent, EW.com, "Camryn Garrett’s Full Disclosure humanizes an unlikely protagonist: a black girl living with HIV," 8 Nov. 2019 Democrats have said securing a second Edwards victory could demonstrate competitiveness in states where the party rarely has achieved a statewide office. — Fox News, "Trump boosts GOP gubernatorial candidate in Louisiana in rally with 'Duck Dynasty' star," 7 Nov. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'achieve.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.