This verb describes reaching a result, usually through effort.

The idea

Use achieve directly with a goal, result or agreement: achieve a goal. It can also stand alone when the result is understood.

Examples

  • Our team achieved its goal.
  • The garden achieved better results with less water.
  • She achieved a high score through practice.
  • They achieved a fair agreement after long talks.
  • The town achieved cleaner air by changing its buses.
  • He hopes to achieve more this year.

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Watch out

Do not add to before the object: say achieve a goal, not achieve to a goal.

Try it yourself

  1. Choose the correct form. After months of work, we ___ our target. (achieved / achieved to)

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    achieved

    Achieved places the completed result in the past.

  2. Choose the correct form. The group hopes to ___ a solution. (achieve / achieve to)

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    achieve

    Achieve follows to in the expression of hope.

  3. Choose the correct form. With careful planning, she has ___ her goal. (achieved / achieving)

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    achieved

    Achieved completes the present perfect after has.

Use it today

Describe a goal you hope to achieve and the effort it requires.