EnglishMain Dictionary
obtain
Universal Words
verb (formal)
1 [VN] (rather formal) to get sth, especially by making an effort:
to obtain advice / information / permission * I finally managed to obtain a copy of the report. * Further details can be obtained by writing to the above address. * To obtain the overall score, add up the totals in each column.
2 [V] (not used in the progressive tenses) (formal) (of rules, systems, customs, etc.) to exist:
These conditions no longer obtain.
