obtain
verb (used with object)
to come into possession of; get, acquire, or procure, as through an effort or by a request.
have obtained
-
present perfectof obtain.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The settlement also includes platform changes that go beyond what the AGs might have obtained by a court order.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 26, 2026
The group also claims to have obtained a playable build of the game and asks users for cryptocurrency donations.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 25, 2026
The result provides a possible explanation for how some of the earliest metabolic reactions could have obtained the energy needed to proceed before modern biological energy systems evolved.
From Science Daily ● Aug. 12, 2026
Italy's President Sergio Mattarella has requested urgent clarification from the justice ministry following reports that a woman close to late ex-Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi may have obtained an official pardon on false pretences.
From BBC ● Apr. 28, 2026
The cheerleaders have obtained some sort of special exemption to roam the hall in a pack with pens in hand to seek out autographs of staff and students.
From "Speak" by Laurie Halse Anderson
