Obtains

Obtains is the third-person singular present tense of the verb obtain. To obtain means to gain possession of something, to secure or acquire something through effort, request, or process, or to come into possession of information or results. The term can refer to tangible items, rights, permissions, data, or knowledge.

Etymology: The word derives from Latin obtinere, meaning “to hold, possess,” formed from ob- “toward” + tenere “to hold,” and entered English via Old French obtenir. English usage dates back to the Middle English period, with obtain as a general verb and obtains as its third-person singular form in modern usage.

Usage: In formal or academic contexts, obtain is preferred over more informal verbs like get. Examples include: “The researchers obtained samples from the site,” or “The license is obtained after review.” In scientific writing, phrases such as “data were obtained” are common. In everyday speech, speakers often use get or acquire, while obtain emphasizes procedure, effort, or formality.

Grammatical notes and related forms: Obtain takes a direct object (you obtain something). The gerund form is obtaining. The adjective obtainable means able to be obtained. The noun obtainment is rare and largely found in formal or legal contexts. Related synonyms include acquire, procure, gain, and secure, which may carry slightly different nuances regarding effort, formality, or immediacy.