Retain vs Attain: When To Use Each One In Writing?

When it comes to achieving success, two words that often come up are “retain” and “attain”. But which one is the proper word to use? The answer is that both words have their place in the pursuit of success.

Retain means to keep or maintain something that has already been obtained. For example, a business may work to retain its current customers by providing excellent service and products. Attain, on the other hand, means to achieve or obtain something that has not yet been obtained. For example, a business may work to attain new customers by implementing a marketing campaign.

Throughout this article, we will explore the differences between retaining and attaining, and when each is appropriate to use in the pursuit of success.

Define Retain

Retain is a verb that means to keep or maintain possession of something or someone. It is often used in the context of retaining customers, which refers to the act of keeping existing customers rather than losing them to competitors. In business, retaining customers is crucial for long-term success and profitability. It involves building strong relationships with customers, providing excellent customer service, and offering products or services that meet their needs and exceed their expectations.

Define Attain

Attain is a verb that means to achieve or reach a goal or objective. It is often used in the context of attaining success, which refers to achieving a desired outcome or level of accomplishment. In business, attaining success can mean different things for different organizations, but it generally involves reaching specific financial or performance targets. Attaining success requires careful planning, hard work, and a willingness to take risks and adapt to changing circumstances.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Using the correct word in a sentence is crucial to conveying the intended meaning. The words “retain” and “attain” are often confused, but they have distinct meanings. Here’s how to use them properly:

How To Use “Retain” In A Sentence

The word “retain” means to keep or hold onto something. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as:

• Retain your receipt in case you need to return the item.
• He was able to retain his title as the champion.
• The company is trying to retain its top employees.

When using “retain,” it’s important to remember that it refers to keeping something that is already possessed or owned.

How To Use “Attain” In A Sentence

The word “attain” means to achieve or reach something. It is often used in the context of goals or accomplishments, such as:

• She was able to attain her dream of becoming a doctor.
• He worked hard to attain his goal of running a marathon.
• The company was able to attain its sales target for the year.

When using “attain,” it’s important to remember that it refers to achieving something that was previously unattainable or out of reach.

Remember to use “retain” when referring to keeping something that is already possessed, and “attain” when referring to achieving something that was previously unattainable. Proper usage of these words will ensure clear and effective communication.

More Examples Of Retain & Attain Used In Sentences

When it comes to the English language, the words “retain” and “attain” are often used interchangeably. However, they have distinct meanings that can affect the clarity of your writing. Here are some more examples of how to use “retain” and “attain” correctly in a sentence.

Examples Of Using Retain In A Sentence

• She was able to retain her title as the world champion.
• The company was able to retain its employees by offering better benefits.
• He tried to retain his composure during the interview.
• The athlete was able to retain his lead until the end of the race.
• The teacher asked the students to retain the information for the upcoming test.
• She was able to retain her memories of the trip despite her illness.
• The artist was able to retain the original beauty of the painting.
• The company was able to retain its customers by offering quality products.
• The lawyer advised his client to retain a copy of the contract.
• The politician was able to retain his position despite the scandal.

Examples Of Using Attain In A Sentence

• He was finally able to attain his dream of becoming a doctor.
• The company was able to attain its goal of increasing revenue.
• She worked hard to attain a high level of proficiency in the language.
• The athlete was able to attain a new personal best in the competition.
• The student was able to attain a scholarship for her academic achievements.
• The company was able to attain a competitive advantage by offering unique products.
• The artist was able to attain recognition for her innovative work.
• The politician promised to attain peace in the region if elected.
• The organization was able to attain its fundraising goal for the year.
• The team was able to attain victory in the championship game.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using the words “retain” and “attain,” many people often make the mistake of using them interchangeably. However, these two words have distinct meanings and should not be used in place of one another. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using “Attain” When You Mean “Retain”

One common mistake is using “attain” when you really mean “retain.” “Attain” means to achieve or accomplish something, while “retain” means to keep or hold onto something. For example, saying “I want to attain my current job” is incorrect, as you already have the job and what you really mean is “I want to retain my current job.”

Using “Retain” When You Mean “Attain”

On the other hand, using “retain” when you really mean “attain” is also a common mistake. “Retain” means to keep something that you already have, while “attain” means to get something that you don’t yet have. For instance, saying “I want to retain a promotion” is incorrect, as you haven’t received the promotion yet and what you really mean is “I want to attain a promotion.”

Confusing The Two In Professional Writing

Mixing up “retain” and “attain” in professional writing can be detrimental to your credibility. It’s important to use the correct word in the appropriate context to avoid confusion and misunderstanding. Take the time to proofread your work and ensure that you’re using the right word.

Tips To Avoid These Mistakes

Here are some tips to help you avoid making these mistakes in the future:

• Take the time to understand the definitions of “retain” and “attain.”
• Think carefully about which word is appropriate for the context in which you’re using it.
• Proofread your work to ensure that you’re using the correct word.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between “retain” and “attain,” context is key. Both words have similar meanings, but the nuances of their definitions can change depending on the situation in which they are used.

Retain

The word “retain” often implies keeping something that is already in possession. For example, a company might want to retain its employees, meaning that they want to keep the current staff on board. In this context, “retain” is appropriate because it suggests that the employees are already part of the company and the goal is to keep them there.

Another example of using “retain” might be in the context of customer retention. A business might want to retain its customers, meaning that they want to keep the current customers they have rather than acquiring new ones. In this case, “retain” suggests that the customers are already part of the business and the goal is to keep them coming back.

Attain

On the other hand, “attain” often implies achieving something that is not yet in possession. For example, a person might want to attain a new job, meaning that they want to achieve a position they do not currently hold. In this context, “attain” is appropriate because it suggests that the job is not currently held and the goal is to achieve it.

Another example of using “attain” might be in the context of customer acquisition. A business might want to attain new customers, meaning that they want to acquire new customers rather than focusing on retaining current ones. In this case, “attain” suggests that the customers are not yet part of the business and the goal is to bring them in.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Here are some additional examples of how the choice between “retain” and “attain” might change depending on the context:

• A fitness instructor might want to retain their current clients, but also attain new ones to grow their business.
• A politician might want to retain their current supporters, but also attain new ones to win an election.
• A student might want to retain the knowledge they have already learned, but also attain new knowledge to improve their skills.

As you can see, the choice between “retain” and “attain” can depend on the specific context in which they are used. Understanding the nuances of each word can help you choose the right one for your particular situation.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using retain and attain are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions to keep in mind. In certain contexts, these words may not follow the usual guidelines. Here are some examples:

Retain

• Legal contracts: In legal contracts, the term “retain” may be used to refer to the act of keeping a lawyer’s services.
• Medical procedures: In medical procedures, “retain” may be used to describe the act of keeping a medical device in the body, such as a stent or implant.
• Retain the right: In legal or business contexts, “retain” may be used to describe the act of keeping a right or privilege, such as the right to terminate a contract.

Attain

• Unattainable goals: In some cases, the goal may be unattainable, meaning it cannot be reached no matter how hard one tries. For example, “attaining immortality” is not a realistic goal.
• Attainable but not desirable: Sometimes, a goal may be attainable, but not necessarily desirable. For example, “attaining a high-paying job at the expense of personal fulfillment” may not be worth pursuing.
• Attain vs achieve: While “attain” and “achieve” are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences in meaning. “Attain” suggests a sense of accomplishment or reaching a goal, while “achieve” implies a sense of effort or hard work put in to reach that goal. For example, one may attain a high score on a test without necessarily achieving mastery of the subject matter.

It’s important to keep these exceptions in mind when using retain and attain, as they can affect the meaning and context of the words. By understanding these nuances, you can use these words more effectively in your writing and communication.

Practice Exercises

Now that you have a better understanding of the difference between “retain” and “attain,” it’s time to put your knowledge into practice. Here are some exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these two words:

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank

Choose the correct word (retain or attain) to fill in the blank in each sentence below:

1. It’s important to _______ customers in order to keep them coming back.
2. After years of hard work, she was finally able to _______ her dream of becoming a doctor.
3. The company was able to _______ its position as the market leader through innovative marketing strategies.
4. He was determined to _______ the highest score on the exam, and he studied tirelessly to make it happen.
5. It’s difficult to _______ a positive attitude in the face of adversity, but it’s important to try.

Answers:

1. retain
2. attain
3. retain
4. attain
5. retain

Exercise 2: Sentence Correction

Each of the following sentences contains an error in the use of “retain” or “attain.” Identify the error and correct it:

1. She was able to retain her goal of losing 10 pounds by sticking to a strict diet and exercise regimen.
2. After years of hard work, he was finally able to attain his position as CEO of the company.
3. The company’s innovative marketing strategies allowed it to attain its position as the market leader.
4. He was determined to retain the highest score on the exam, and he studied tirelessly to make it happen.
5. It’s important to attain a positive attitude in the face of adversity, but it’s difficult to do so.

Answers:

1. Correction: She was able to attain her goal of losing 10 pounds by sticking to a strict diet and exercise regimen.
2. No error.
3. No error.
4. Correction: He was determined to attain the highest score on the exam, and he studied tirelessly to make it happen.
5. Correction: It’s important to retain a positive attitude in the face of adversity, but it’s difficult to do so.

By completing these exercises, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the use of “retain” and “attain” in your writing and speech.

Conclusion

After exploring the differences between retain and attain, it is clear that these two words have distinct meanings and should be used in appropriate circumstances. Retain refers to keeping or holding onto something that is already possessed, while attain refers to achieving or obtaining something that is desired.

It is important to use these words correctly to avoid confusion and ensure clear communication. Remember to consider the context and intended meaning when choosing between retain and attain.

Key Takeaways

• Retain means to keep or hold onto something that is already possessed.
• Attain means to achieve or obtain something that is desired.
• Using these words correctly is important for clear communication.
• Consider the context and intended meaning when choosing between retain and attain.

By understanding the nuances of language use and grammar, we can improve our writing and communication skills. Keep learning and exploring to continue to enhance your language abilities.