Cool MateObtain vs Takes
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Obtain
Top 2,000 (common)B2verb
Takes
Top 1,000 (very common)
Most common: Takes
| Obtain | Takes | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //əbˈteɪn//🇺🇸 //əbˈteɪn// | 🇬🇧 //teɪks//🇺🇸 //teɪks// |
| Meaning | To get or receive something. | To grab or obtain something. |
| Example | You need to obtain permission from the manager first. | She takes a deep breath before speaking. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 1,000 (very common) |
| CEFR level | B2 | - |
| Part of speech | verb | |
| Collocations | obtain a degree, obtain funding, obtain information, obtain results, obtain consent | take a break, take advantage, take a chance, take notes |
| Antonyms | lose, forfeit, surrender | give, release, return |
| Common mistakes | Confusing 'obtain' with 'get', which is less formal., Using 'obtain' incorrectly with intransitive forms., Incorrectly conjugating the verb in different tenses. | Confused with 'bring' - understand who the action is directed towards., Using 'takes' as a noun form instead of a verb., Incorrect tense usage (e.g., saying 'taked' instead of 'took'). |
| Usage notes | Used in formal and neutral contexts. Common in academic and professional language. Not typically used in casual conversation. | Use 'takes' for actions involving grabbing, receiving, or consuming. It's more common in everyday conversation. Avoid using it in overly formal contexts. |
Frequently asked questions: Obtain vs Takes
What's the difference between Obtain and Takes?
Obtain: To get or receive something. Takes: To grab or obtain something.
Which is more common: Obtain and Takes?
Takes is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
Obtain: You need to obtain permission from the manager first. Takes: She takes a deep breath before speaking.
Can I use Obtain and Takes interchangeably?
Not always. Obtain and Takes are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.