Attainable
Part of speech: adjective
Pronunciation: /əˈteɪnəbəl/
Definitions
- Possible to achieve | Capable of being reached or accomplished | Able to be obtained or realized within a certain capacity
- Capable of being achieved or reached through effort or ability | Possible to obtain or accomplish within realistic limits or conditions | Feasible to acquire or realize through suitable means or conditions
- Achievable through effort or resources, this term describes something that can be reached or realized within practical boundaries and includes the potential for success
Etymology: The term "attainable" is derived from the verb "attain," which has its roots in the Latin word "attingere," meaning "to touch" or "to reach." This Latin term combined "ad," meaning "to," with "tangere," which means "to touch." The transition from Latin to English occurred through Old French, where "atteindre" carried forward the essence of reaching or achieving something. By the late 14th century, "attain" surfaced in English, retaining the core meaning of achieving or reaching a goal. As the language evolved, the adjective form "attainable" began to take shape in the 15th century, stemming from the verb by adding the suffix "-able," which signifies capability or suitability. This suffix is common in English, often indicating that something can be done or achieved. Thus, "attainable" came to describe goals or objectives that are possible to achieve or realize, a notion that resonates with aspirations and ambitions. Interestingly, the word encapsulates a broader philosophical concept, suggesting that not all goals are inherently reachable, which can lead to a deeper discussion about human potential and limitations. The word speaks to the broader human experience of striving toward objectives, emphasizing the importance of setting realistic and achievable targets, a sentiment that has echoed throughout literature and motivational discourse over the centuries.
Synonyms: achievable, reachable, obtainable
Antonyms: unattainable, impossible