Adjective About access, not a personal quality
ObtainableMeaning, examples and usage
Obtainable means that something can be got or acquired.
Say it: ub-TAY-nuh-buhl · stress the second syllable
How to use obtainable
Use obtainable for something a person can get: a document, replacement part, ticket or piece of information. Add the source or conditions when those matter. “Obtainable from the office” answers a practical question; “obtainable somehow” leaves the reader with work to do.
Example sentences
Illustrative examples written for this guide.
A document
“A replacement certificate is obtainable from the school office.”
The sentence tells the reader both what can be acquired and where.
A spare part
“The filter is still obtainable, although delivery takes two weeks.”
Possible to get does not necessarily mean immediately in stock.
A condition
“The full transcript is obtainable on request.”
On request explains the step needed to get it.
Similar words, different emphasis
- Available
- Often the simpler choice for something offered or ready to use: “Tickets are available online.”
- Accessible
- Useful when the emphasis is on being able to reach or use something, rather than acquire it.
- Achievable
- A more direct choice for a goal that can be accomplished: “Finishing this week is achievable.”
Is obtainable a positive word?
It can be good news when something you need is obtainable, but the word itself does not express praise. It describes the possibility of getting something. For a compliment about a person, choose a quality such as helpful or resourceful instead.
References and editorial note
The linked dictionary entries support the word meanings. The example sentences and writing suggestions are Ikigain’s own. This is a language guide, not a personality assessment.