- 1[transitive] obtain something to get something, especially by making an effort to obtain advice/information/permission I finally managed to obtain a copy of the report. Further details can be obtained by writing to the above address. To obtain the overall score, add up the totals in each column.
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- 2[intransitive] (not used in the progressive tenses) (of rules, systems, customs, etc.) to exist synonym apply These conditions no longer obtain.
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NAmE//əbˈteɪn//
(formal)Verb Forms present simple I / you / we / they obtain he / she / it obtains
past simple obtained
-ing form obtaining
Check pronunciation: obtain