Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English - obtain

~ v formal 1 to get something that you want, especially through your own effort, skill, or work  (Further information can be obtained from head office. | They've extended the growing season to obtain a larger crop. | the difficulty of obtaining credit) 2 I not in progressive if a situation, system, or rule obtains, it continues to exist  (These conditions no longer obtain.)  ( USAGE NOTE: OBTAIN WORD CHOICE obtain, get, get hold of, find out, achieve, receive Obtain is formal and often sounds unnatural in spoken English or in a personal letter Where can I obtain a list of restaurants? | Fresh fruit and vegetables were especially difficult to obtain. Get is the most common word in spoken English and informal writing meaning to come to have something. However, some people feel that get should not be used too often in writing Where did you get that painting? | He gets about $200 a week at the textile mill. You can also get hold of things, or information, especially after some difficulty (informal) I need to get hold of a powerful computer. | At last I managed to get hold of her address. You find out information I need to find out where my classes are. If you get yourself into a better situation through you own efforts, you achieve something We are working to achieve better results/equality/independence. | Regular exercise helps people achieve better health. If what you get comes naturally or is given to you, you can use the word receive (slightly formal) The charity receives most of its money through private donations. )