"Unattainable" vs. "unobtainable": distinctions in the realm of reach

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 16/10/2024, 02:11

English.me team member

Unattainable and unobtainable. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both words describe something that cannot be gained, achieved, or reached.

What is different?

Unattainable often refers to not being able to reach a certain level or standard, focusing more on goals or ideals. Unobtainable suggests something cannot be acquired or possessed, often focusing on physical objects or resources.

Which one is more common?

Examples of usage

Unattainable

World peace seems like an unattainable ideal.
The mountain peak appeared unattainable to the climbers.
She set an unattainable standard for herself.

Unobtainable

Due to the embargo, certain goods became unobtainable.
The rare artifact was unobtainable by any means.
The latest tech gadget was unobtainable due to high demand.