Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/əˈteɪnmənt/

Definitions

• Attainment (noun) - The action or fact of achieving or reaching a goal, objective, or status.
• Attainment (noun) - A skill or knowledge that has been acquired through effort or achievement.

Usage Examples

• "His attainment of the highest honors in the class was celebrated at graduation."
• "She worked tirelessly for the attainment of her dreams."
• "The attainment of knowledge is often a lifelong process."

Etymology

The word "attainment" comes from the verb "attain," which is derived from the Old French "ateindre," meaning "to reach, achieve." The word "attain" itself is derived from the Latin "ad" (to) and "tangere" (to touch). The suffix "-ment" is used to form nouns indicating the result of an action, from Old French and Latin origins.

Synonyms

• Achievement
• Accomplishment
• Realization
• Success
• Fulfillment
• Completion

Antonyms

• Failure
• Defeat
• Setback
• Incompletion
• Loss

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "attainment" tends to remain consistent across English dialects. However, speakers of some regional dialects may stress different syllables or slightly modify the vowel sounds. In American English, the stress is often placed on the second syllable, while in some British accents, the stress may feel slightly more balanced between the two syllables.

Historical Usage

The term "attainment" has been used since the 16th century, reflecting the growing focus on personal achievement and social mobility during the Renaissance period. Historically, it was often tied to educational, social, and economic milestones, but its modern usage has expanded to encompass a wide range of achievements across various domains, including personal, academic, and professional.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, attainment is closely linked to notions of success, respect, and honor. The pursuit of attainment can be seen as a sign of individual determination and societal value, though it may also carry social pressure, particularly when achievement is tied to status or wealth. Different societies place varying emphasis on the importance of attainment in areas such as education, career, and personal goals.

More Information

Attainment is often viewed as a positive and necessary part of personal development. It has come to symbolize progress and the successful overcoming of challenges. In modern societies, attainment is commonly used in contexts such as education, where students are encouraged to attain higher grades, and in professional settings, where employees strive for promotions or recognition. While attainment is a sign of success, it can also be a source of pressure, especially in competitive or high-expectation environments.