obtain

Syllables:
ob·tain
2 syllables
obtain in syllables

About "obtain"

Syllables
2
Letters
6
Language
EN

How to Split "obtain" into Syllables

The word obtain is divided into 2 syllables: ob·tain. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

  • ob — 1st syllable
  • tain — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of obtain:

  • IPA: /əbˈteɪn/

Listen to Pronunciation

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📖 Definitions

  1. obtain (third-person singular simple present obtains, present participle obtaining, simple past and past participle obtained)
  2. boat-in, batino, Tobian, Bonita

📚 Word Origin & History

From Middle English obteinen, from Anglo-Norman obtenir, optiner et al., and Middle French obtenir, from Latin obtinēre (“to gain, achieve, succeed, possess”), from ob- + tenēre (“to hold”).

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down obtain into syllables helps with:

  • Correct pronunciation — Knowing syllable structure ensures accurate speech
  • Improved spelling — Breaking words into chunks makes them easier to remember and write
  • Reading fluency — Recognizing syllable patterns speeds up reading comprehension
  • Poetry and lyrics — Syllable counting is essential for meter and rhythm
  • Language learning — Non-native speakers benefit from syllable awareness

📊 Similar Words Comparison

Compare obtain with related words to understand syllable patterns:

Word Syllables Division
obtain 2 ob·tain
option 2 op-tion
optima 3 op-ti-ma
optimum 3 op-ti-mum
ovation 2 ova-tion

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to obtain:

obtuse, obtrude, obtruding, obtrusion, obtrusive, obtainable, obtainment.

Frequently Asked Questions About "obtain"

How many syllables does "obtain" have?

obtain has 2 syllables: ob·tain. The word is divided into 2 distinct sound units that make up the complete pronunciation.

Where is the stress in "obtain"?

The stress is on the first syllable: ob. This means you emphasize the "ob" part when pronouncing obtain.

How do you pronounce "obtain"?

obtain is pronounced as /əbˈteɪn/ (IPA notation). The syllables are divided as: ob·tain.

Is "obtain" easy to spell?

Breaking obtain into syllables helps with spelling: ob·tain. By pronouncing each syllable separately, you can identify the letters more easily and avoid common spelling mistakes.

Why learn to divide "obtain" into syllables?

Learning syllable division helps with correct pronunciation, improved spelling, better reading fluency, and is useful for poetry and lyric writing where syllable counting matters. It's especially helpful for language learners.