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B1 verb #1,000 le plus courant 12 min de lecture

obtener

Top 1,000

At the A1 level, 'obtener' is a word you might see in very specific contexts, like on a computer screen or in a simple instruction. While it's a bit advanced for a beginner's daily vocabulary, you can think of it as a fancy way to say 'to get'. Imagine you are playing a video game and you 'get' a point; in a formal Spanish game, it might say 'obtener un punto'. At this stage, you don't need to worry about the difficult past tense forms (like 'obtuve'). Just recognize that 'obtener' means getting something, usually something important like a grade or a prize. You might see it in phrases like 'obtener información' (to get information). It's helpful to remember that it looks like the English word 'obtain'. If you see 'obtener', just think 'obtain' or 'get'. You will mostly use simpler words like 'tener' (to have) or 'tomar' (to take) for now, but knowing 'obtener' will help you understand formal signs and apps. Focus on the present tense 'yo obtengo' (I get) and 'tú obtienes' (you get) if you want to start using it. It's a great 'power word' to make your Spanish sound more professional even as a beginner. Remember, it's about getting a thing, not becoming something (like getting tired).

At the A2 level, you are starting to move beyond basic survival Spanish and into more descriptive language. 'Obtener' becomes useful when you talk about your studies, your work, or official tasks. For example, if you are talking about a test, you might say 'Quiero obtener una buena nota' (I want to get a good grade). This sounds a bit more serious and focused than just saying 'tener una nota'. You will also start to notice that 'obtener' is used for things you can't touch, like 'permiso' (permission) or 'ayuda' (help). At this level, you should start practicing the present tense, which is irregular. Remember that it changes like the verb 'tener'. So, 'yo obtengo', 'tú obtienes', 'él obtiene'. This 'ie' change is common in Spanish, and 'obtener' is a perfect example. You might also use it when talking about technology, like 'obtener una aplicación' (to get an app). It's a transitive verb, which means you always need to say *what* you are obtaining. You can't just say 'Yo obtengo'; you have to say 'Yo obtengo el premio'. Start using it in formal situations, like when talking to a teacher or a boss, to show that you are improving your vocabulary. It's a step up from 'conseguir', which is also 'to get' but more common in casual talk.

As a B1 learner, 'obtener' should become a regular part of your vocabulary, especially in written Spanish. This is the level where you are expected to handle more formal situations, such as writing an email to a company or explaining a process. 'Obtener' is the perfect verb for these tasks. You should be comfortable with its irregular conjugation in the present tense and start mastering the preterite (past tense). The preterite is tricky: 'obtuve', 'obtuviste', 'obtuvo'. These forms are essential for reporting what happened. For example, 'El año pasado obtuve mi diploma' (Last year I obtained my diploma). At B1, you should also understand the nuance between 'obtener' and its synonyms. Use 'obtener' for results, data, and official documents. Use 'conseguir' when you want to emphasize that you worked hard to get something. For instance, 'Obtuve la visa' (I got the visa - formal fact) vs. 'Por fin conseguí la visa' (I finally got the visa - after a struggle). You will also see 'obtener' in passive constructions like 'se obtienen resultados' (results are obtained). This is very common in news and textbooks. Start using 'obtener' to describe the benefits of something, like 'Puedes obtener muchos beneficios de este curso'. It makes your arguments sound more logical and well-structured.

At the B2 level, you should use 'obtener' with precision and ease. You are now expected to understand and use the verb in all its tenses, including the subjunctive ('espero que obtengas') and the conditional ('obtendría'). At this stage, you should focus on using 'obtener' in professional and academic contexts. It is the standard verb for discussing business profits ('obtener ganancias'), scientific findings ('obtener conclusiones'), and legal rights ('obtener la custodia'). You should also be able to use it in more complex sentence structures, such as 'Tras obtener los resultados, el equipo decidió cambiar la estrategia' (After obtaining the results, the team decided to change the strategy). At B2, you should also be aware of the 'register' of the word. You know that using 'obtener' for a cup of coffee sounds strange, but using it for a scholarship sounds perfect. You should also start exploring collocations—words that naturally go together with 'obtener'. Phrases like 'obtener el visto bueno' (to get the go-ahead) or 'obtener una ventaja' (to gain an advantage) will make your Spanish sound much more native-like. You should also be able to distinguish 'obtener' from 'adquirir' (to acquire property or knowledge) and 'lograr' (to achieve a goal). 'Obtener' is about the acquisition of the thing itself, often as a result of a formal process.

For C1 learners, 'obtener' is a versatile tool for nuanced expression. You should be able to use it in highly formal writing, such as legal briefs, academic papers, or high-level business reports. At this level, you understand that 'obtener' can describe not just physical or formal acquisition, but also the derivation of abstract concepts. For example, 'obtener una visión clara' (to obtain a clear vision) or 'obtener el reconocimiento' (to gain recognition). You should be comfortable using the verb in the 'se' impersonal and passive voice to maintain an objective tone: 'Se obtuvo una muestra representativa' (A representative sample was obtained). Your mastery of the irregular forms should be flawless, including the future ('obtendré') and the imperfect subjunctive ('obtuviera'). You should also be able to use 'obtener' in idiomatic or semi-idiomatic expressions and understand its role in complex rhetorical structures. For instance, you might use it to contrast different types of acquisition: 'No se trata solo de obtener el poder, sino de saber ejercerlo' (It's not just about obtaining power, but knowing how to exercise it). At C1, you also recognize the stylistic value of 'obtener'—it can be used to avoid repeating 'conseguir' or 'tener', adding variety and sophistication to your prose. You are also sensitive to the subtle differences between 'obtener' and more literary synonyms like 'procurarse' or 'granjearse'.

At the C2 level, 'obtener' is used with total mastery of its semantic range and stylistic implications. You can use it to convey subtle shades of meaning in philosophical, literary, or highly technical discourses. You understand how 'obtener' functions in the history of the language, stemming from the Latin 'obtinere', and how it maintains its sense of 'holding onto' or 'securing' something. In a C2 context, you might use 'obtener' to describe the extraction of meaning from a text or the derivation of a mathematical proof with absolute precision. You are also aware of how the word can be used ironically or metaphorically in literature. For example, a character might 'obtener' a punishment as if it were a hard-won prize. Your use of the verb is integrated into a wide range of complex grammatical structures, including the most advanced uses of the subjunctive and conditional. You can effortlessly navigate between 'obtener' and its most formal synonyms like 'devengar' (to earn/accrue) or 'cosechar' (to reap/harvest) depending on the desired imagery. At this level, 'obtener' is not just a verb for 'getting'; it is a precise instrument for defining the relationship between an agent and an outcome. Whether you are discussing the 'obtención' (acquisition) of civil rights or the 'obtención' of a chemical compound, your usage reflects a deep understanding of Spanish as a tool for high-level intellectual inquiry.

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

obtener en 30 secondes

Obtener means 'to get' or 'to obtain' in a formal or official context.
It is an irregular verb that conjugates exactly like 'tener' (e.g., yo obtengo, él obtuvo).
Commonly used for grades, permissions, visas, profits, and scientific results.
It is more formal than 'conseguir' and focuses on the result of a process.

The Spanish verb obtener is a cornerstone of intermediate and advanced communication, primarily functioning as a more formal or precise equivalent to the English verb 'to get'. While 'get' in English is a linguistic Swiss Army knife, obtener specifically targets the act of acquiring, securing, or reaching a result through some form of effort, process, or formal transaction. It is not merely about receiving something passively; it often implies that there was a prerequisite met or a procedure followed. In the hierarchy of Spanish verbs for 'getting', obtener sits above the common conseguir in terms of formality, though they are often used interchangeably in professional contexts. Understanding obtener requires recognizing its weight in academic, legal, and official settings. For instance, you don't just 'get' a degree in Spanish; you obtienes un título. You don't just 'get' permission; you obtienes el permiso. This nuance of 'attainment' is what separates it from the more casual agarrar (to grab) or tomar (to take).

Academic Achievement: Used when discussing grades, diplomas, or certifications. It suggests the culmination of study and evaluation.

Es necesario estudiar mucho para obtener una buena calificación en el examen final.

Legal and Official Procurement: Common in the context of visas, passports, licenses, or any document issued by an authority after a formal request.

Debes obtener la visa antes de viajar a ese país.

Furthermore, obtener is frequently used in scientific and mathematical contexts to describe the result of an operation or experiment. When you multiply two numbers, you obtienes a product. When you conduct a chemical reaction, you obtienes a substance. This level of precision makes it indispensable for technical writing. In everyday speech, while conseguir might be more common for 'getting' a job or 'getting' tickets to a concert, obtener is never wrong; it simply adds a layer of professionalism and clarity to your speech. It reflects a speaker who is articulate and aware of the formal structures of the language. In Latin America and Spain, the usage remains consistent, though regional preferences for its synonyms might vary. For example, in some regions, sacar is used colloquially for grades (sacar una nota), but obtener una nota remains the standard in written reports.

Extraction and Derivation: Used when a substance or information is derived from a source, such as oil from the ground or data from a survey.

Podemos obtener energía limpia a partir del viento.

El detective logró obtener una confesión del sospechoso.

¿Cómo puedo obtener más información sobre este curso?

Using obtener correctly involves mastering its irregular conjugation and understanding its transitive nature. As a transitive verb, it always requires a direct object—the thing being obtained. You cannot simply 'obtener'; you must 'obtener algo'. Because it follows the conjugation of tener, it undergoes several stem changes and irregular forms that can trip up learners. In the present tense, the first person singular is obtengo (the 'go' ending), and it features an e-to-ie stem change in other forms (obtienes, obtiene, obtienen). In the preterite, it becomes obtuve, obtuviste, obtuvo, which is a significant departure from regular -er verbs. This complexity is why many learners default to conseguir, but mastering the irregular forms of obtener is a hallmark of a B1-B2 level speaker. When constructing sentences, consider the 'source' of the object. Often, obtener is paired with the preposition de (from) or mediante (through/by means of) to indicate how the acquisition happened.

The 'Go' Present Tense: The 'Yo' form adds a 'g'. This is a common pattern for verbs ending in -tener.

Yo obtengo mis mejores ideas mientras camino por el parque.

The Stem-Changing Present: Except for 'nosotros' and 'vosotros', the 'e' in the stem changes to 'ie'.

Si tú obtienes el primer lugar, recibirás un premio especial.

Beyond the mechanics of conjugation, obtener is frequently used in the passive voice or with the impersonal 'se' in formal writing. For example, 'Se obtuvieron resultados positivos' (Positive results were obtained). This is common in scientific reports or news broadcasts where the focus is on the result rather than the person who achieved it. In business, you will see it in phrases like obtener beneficios (to make a profit) or obtener una ventaja competitiva (to gain a competitive advantage). It is also the standard verb for 'getting' digital items, such as obtener una aplicación or obtener acceso. When using it with people, it can sound a bit cold or transactional, so use conseguir or lograr if you are talking about personal relationships or emotional goals. However, if you are talking about 'obtaining' a confession or 'obtaining' information from a witness, obtener is the perfect fit for the clinical or investigative tone required.

The Irregular Preterite: This tense is used for completed actions in the past. The 'uv' change is mandatory.

La empresa obtuvo un crecimiento del diez por ciento el año pasado.

¿Cómo obtuviste mi número de teléfono privado?

Ellos esperan obtener el permiso de construcción la próxima semana.

If you turn on a Spanish news channel like RTVE or CNN en Español, you will hear obtener constantly. It is the 'serious' way to report on achievements, data, and legal outcomes. News anchors use it to describe election results (el candidato obtuvo la mayoría), economic shifts (el país obtuvo un préstamo), and investigative findings. In the workplace, obtener is the language of the boardroom and the office. When discussing quarterly goals or project outcomes, professionals prefer obtener because it sounds objective and results-oriented. It suggests that the outcome was the product of strategy and execution. You will also encounter it frequently in the digital world. Every time you download an app or sign up for a service, the buttons or confirmation emails will likely use obtener. In the App Store or Google Play in Spanish, the 'Get' button is often translated as 'Obtener'. This makes it one of the first 'formal' words a learner might see without even realizing it.

The Digital Interface: Standard terminology for acquiring software, digital assets, or access rights in apps and websites.

Haz clic aquí para obtener la versión premium de la aplicación.

News and Journalism: The preferred verb for reporting statistics, legal victories, and official statements.

El equipo nacional obtuvo la medalla de oro tras una final intensa.

In academic settings, professors and students use obtener to discuss the results of research. 'Para obtener estos datos, realizamos una encuesta a cien personas' (To obtain these data, we conducted a survey of one hundred people). It provides a level of academic rigor to the description of the methodology. In literature, obtener might be used to describe a character's hard-won success or the acquisition of a mysterious object. It carries a certain 'weight' that simpler verbs lack. Even in casual conversation, a speaker might switch to obtener to emphasize the difficulty or the importance of what they got. For example, instead of saying 'conseguí el trabajo' (I got the job), saying 'obtuve el puesto' (I obtained the position) sounds more professional and suggests that the speaker is proud of the formal process they navigated. It is a word that signals maturity and a high level of linguistic competence.

Scientific and Technical Reports: Used to describe the extraction of substances or the generation of data through experiments.

Es posible obtener agua potable mediante el proceso de desalinización.

Los científicos obtuvieron muestras del suelo marciano para su análisis.

¿Qué beneficios podemos obtener de esta nueva alianza comercial?

The most frequent mistake learners make with obtener is treating it as a regular verb. Because it looks like it should follow the pattern of comer or beber, students often say 'yo obteno' or 'él obtenió'. These are incorrect. You must internalize the tener pattern: obtengo, obtienes, obtuvo, obtuvimos. Another common error is using obtener in contexts that are too informal. While it is never grammatically 'wrong' to use it, saying 'obtuve una manzana de la cocina' (I obtained an apple from the kitchen) sounds bizarrely formal, like a police report. In that case, agarré or tomé would be much more natural. Conversely, learners sometimes fail to use obtener when the context demands it, sticking only to conseguir. While conseguir is versatile, using obtener in a job interview or a formal essay demonstrates a higher level of sophistication. It shows you can distinguish between 'getting' something by chance and 'obtaining' something through a formal process.

The 'Obtenió' Trap: Many learners try to conjugate the preterite regularly. Remember: it's 'obtuvo', just like 'tuvo'.

Incorrecto: El estudiante obtenió una beca.
Correcto: El estudiante obtuvo una beca.

Over-formality: Using 'obtener' for trivial, everyday physical objects can sound robotic or strange in casual conversation.

Extraño: ¿Puedes obtener el control remoto?
Natural: ¿Puedes pasarme el control remoto?

A subtle mistake involves the use of prepositions. English speakers often want to say 'obtener de' for everything, but sometimes obtener mediante (obtain through) or obtener a través de (obtain across/via) is more precise for describing a process. Also, be careful with the reflexive form. While obtenerse exists, it is used almost exclusively in the passive sense ('se puede obtener' - 'it can be obtained'). You don't 'obtenerse' something for yourself in the way you might 'comprarse' a shirt. Finally, watch out for the confusion between obtener and lograr. Lograr is more about achieving a goal or succeeding in doing something (often followed by an infinitive), whereas obtener is about the physical or formal acquisition of a thing (usually followed by a noun). If you say 'obtuve terminar el proyecto', it's wrong; you should say 'logré terminar el proyecto'.

Confusion with 'Lograr': 'Obtener' needs a noun (a thing). 'Lograr' can take a noun or a verb (an action).

Incorrecto: Obtuve ganar la carrera.
Correcto: Logré ganar la carrera.

Correcto: Obtuve el primer premio en la carrera.

¿Es posible obtener un reembolso si el producto está defectuoso?

To truly master obtener, you must understand its relationship with its synonyms. Spanish has a rich vocabulary for the concept of 'getting', and choosing the right one depends on the register (formal vs. informal) and the nature of the acquisition. The most common alternative is conseguir. While conseguir also means to get or obtain, it often carries a stronger connotation of effort or overcoming obstacles. If you 'conseguiste' tickets to a sold-out show, it implies you had to work for them. Obtener is more neutral and formal, focusing on the result. Another close relative is adquirir (to acquire). Adquirir is often used for buying things (like property or a company) or for gaining knowledge and habits over a long period. Then there is alcanzar (to reach/achieve), which is used when the 'getting' involves a physical reach or a long-term goal like a specific age or a sales target.

Obtener vs. Conseguir: 'Obtener' is formal and result-oriented. 'Conseguir' is more common in daily speech and implies effort.

Formal: El científico obtuvo los datos.
Informal: Conseguí los datos que necesitábamos.

Obtener vs. Adquirir: 'Adquirir' is for permanent possession (buying a house) or developing skills/habits.

Ella adquirió una nueva propiedad en el campo.
Él obtuvo el permiso para construir allí.

For more specific contexts, you might use granjearse, which means to win or earn something abstract like respect or sympathy through your actions. There is also procurar, which means to try to get or to provide. In a legal context, you might hear recabar, specifically for collecting evidence or information. Understanding these distinctions allows you to paint a more precise picture with your words. If you use obtener for everything, you sound like a textbook; if you use conseguir for everything, you sound a bit informal. The key is balance. Use obtener when the focus is on the official nature of the 'getting'—grades, visas, results, profits, or information. Use its alternatives when you want to emphasize the struggle, the purchase, or the physical act of reaching for something.

Obtener vs. Alcanzar: 'Alcanzar' is for reaching a target or a physical height. 'Obtener' is for receiving the item or result.

La empresa alcanzó su meta de ventas y obtuvo grandes beneficios.

¿Cómo podemos obtener mejores resultados en el próximo trimestre?

Es fundamental obtener el consentimiento de todos los participantes.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

"Es imperativo obtener la autorización pertinente antes de proceder."

Neutre

"He obtenido muy buenos resultados en mis estudios."

Informel

"¿Cómo obtuviste mi número?"

Child friendly

"Si portas bien, puedes obtener una pegatina de estrella."

Argot

"N/A"

Le savais-tu ?

Because it shares the same root as 'tener', it inherits all of 'tener's' irregular conjugation patterns, making it a 'family' of irregular verbs including 'contener', 'mantener', and 'sostener'.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ob.te.ˈner/

US /ob.te.ˈner/

The stress is on the last syllable: ob-te-NER.

Rime avec

comer beber saber poder querer ver leer traer

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing the 'b' too strongly like an English 'b'. In Spanish, it's more fricative.
Failing to tap the 'r' at the end.
Stressing the second syllable (ob-TE-ner) instead of the last.
Pronouncing the 'e' like the 'ee' in 'see'. It should be like the 'e' in 'met'.
Dropping the 'b' entirely (o-te-ner).

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Easy to recognize due to its similarity to 'obtain'.

Écriture 4/5

Difficult due to irregular 'tener-style' conjugations.

Expression orale 4/5

Hard to remember the 'uv' stem in the past tense during fast speech.

Écoute 3/5

Can be confused with 'tener' or 'contener' if not listening carefully.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

tener conseguir cosa dar recibir

Apprends ensuite

adquirir lograr alcanzar procurar mantener

Avancé

devengar granjearse recabar cosechar percibir

Grammaire à connaître

Irregular 'Go' Verbs

Yo obtengo (like tengo, pongo, salgo).

Stem-changing Verbs (e -> ie)

Tú obtienes, él obtiene (like tener, venir).

Irregular Preterite 'uv' Stem

Yo obtuve, tú obtuviste (like tuve, estuve, anduve).

Future and Conditional Stem Change

Yo obtendré, yo obtendría (like tendré, vendré).

Transitive Verb Usage

Obtener siempre requiere un objeto directo (Obtener *algo*).

Exemples par niveau

Quiero obtener un diez en el examen.

I want to get a ten on the exam.

Present infinitive after 'quiero'.

Puedes obtener el libro en la biblioteca.

You can get the book at the library.

Infinitive after the modal verb 'puedes'.

Él quiere obtener un premio.

He wants to get a prize.

Third person singular 'quiere' + 'obtener'.

¿Cómo puedo obtener ayuda?

How can I get help?

Question structure with 'cómo' and 'puedo'.

Necesito obtener una visa.

I need to get a visa.

Verb 'necesitar' followed by infinitive.

Ellos obtienen muchos regalos.

They get many gifts.

Present tense, third person plural 'obtienen' (stem-change e->ie).

Yo obtengo buenas notas.

I get good grades.

Present tense, first person singular 'obtengo' (irregular 'go' form).

Ella obtiene una flor.

She gets a flower.

Present tense, third person singular 'obtiene' (stem-change e->ie).

Debes obtener el permiso de tus padres.

You must get your parents' permission.

Modal 'debes' + infinitive.

Nosotros obtenemos información de internet.

We get information from the internet.

Present tense, 'nosotros' form (no stem change).

¿Dónde obtuviste esa chaqueta?

Where did you get that jacket?

Preterite tense, second person singular 'obtuviste' (irregular 'uv' stem).

El equipo obtuvo el segundo lugar.

The team got second place.

Preterite tense, third person singular 'obtuvo'.

Es fácil obtener una cuenta nueva.

It is easy to get a new account.

Impersonal 'es' + adjective + infinitive.

Ella obtiene su dinero trabajando mucho.

She gets her money by working hard.

Present tense with gerund 'trabajando' for method.

Obtuvimos las entradas ayer.

We got the tickets yesterday.

Preterite tense, 'nosotros' form 'obtuvimos'.

¿Obtienes tú el correo todos los días?

Do you get the mail every day?

Present tense question with 'tú' (stem-change).

Espero obtener una beca para estudiar en el extranjero.

I hope to get a scholarship to study abroad.

Verb 'esperar' followed by infinitive.

Si estudias, obtendrás mejores resultados.

If you study, you will get better results.

Future tense 'obtendrás' (irregular stem 'obtendr-').

El detective obtuvo una pista importante.

The detective obtained an important clue.

Preterite tense for a completed action in the past.

No es posible obtener un reembolso sin el recibo.

It is not possible to get a refund without the receipt.

Negative impersonal construction.

Ellos obtuvieron el permiso de construcción la semana pasada.

They obtained the building permit last week.

Preterite tense, third person plural 'obtuvieron'.

Para obtener el descuento, usa este código.

To get the discount, use this code.

'Para' + infinitive to express purpose.

He obtenido mucha experiencia en este trabajo.

I have obtained a lot of experience in this job.

Present perfect tense 'he obtenido'.

¿Crees que obtendremos el contrato?

Do you think we will get the contract?

Future tense, 'nosotros' form 'obtendremos'.

La empresa obtuvo grandes beneficios el trimestre pasado.

The company made great profits last quarter.

Use of 'obtener' for financial gain.

Es fundamental obtener el consentimiento informado de los pacientes.

It is essential to obtain informed consent from patients.

Formal academic/medical context.

Dudo que obtengas una respuesta hoy mismo.

I doubt that you will get an answer today.

Subjunctive mood 'obtengas' after 'dudo que'.

Si hubieras preguntado, habrías obtenido la información.

If you had asked, you would have obtained the information.

Third conditional structure (pluperfect subjunctive + conditional perfect).

Se obtuvieron resultados muy positivos en el experimento.

Very positive results were obtained in the experiment.

Passive 'se' construction.

Tras obtener el título, decidió viajar por el mundo.

After obtaining the degree, he decided to travel the world.

'Tras' + infinitive for sequential actions.

Obtuvimos una ventaja competitiva gracias a la tecnología.

We gained a competitive advantage thanks to technology.

Business collocation 'obtener una ventaja'.

El abogado intentó obtener una reducción de la condena.

The lawyer tried to obtain a reduction of the sentence.

Legal context usage.

La investigación busca obtener una visión holística del problema.

The research seeks to obtain a holistic view of the problem.

Abstract academic usage.

Es imperativo que obtengamos el visto bueno de la junta directiva.

It is imperative that we get the go-ahead from the board of directors.

Subjunctive 'obtengamos' after an impersonal expression of necessity.

El autor logra obtener un tono de melancolía en su obra.

The author manages to achieve a tone of melancholy in his work.

Literary context for 'obtaining' an effect.

A pesar de las dificultades, obtuvieron el reconocimiento internacional.

Despite the difficulties, they gained international recognition.

Use of 'a pesar de' to show contrast.

Se puede obtener energía a partir de fuentes renovables.

Energy can be obtained from renewable sources.

Passive voice with 'se puede'.

La policía no pudo obtener una confesión clara del sospechoso.

The police could not obtain a clear confession from the suspect.

Negative ability in the past.

Para obtener la máxima eficiencia, debemos optimizar los recursos.

To obtain maximum efficiency, we must optimize resources.

Technical/Industrial context.

El candidato obtuvo el respaldo de los sectores más conservadores.

The candidate obtained the backing of the most conservative sectors.

Political context for 'backing/support'.

La dialéctica permite obtener una síntesis de ideas opuestas.

Dialectics allows for obtaining a synthesis of opposing ideas.

Philosophical usage.

No es baladí el esfuerzo necesario para obtener tal maestría.

The effort required to obtain such mastery is not trivial.

Use of sophisticated vocabulary like 'baladí'.

El texto se vuelve críptico al intentar obtener una interpretación única.

The text becomes cryptic when trying to obtain a single interpretation.

Literary/Hermeneutic context.

Cualquier beneficio que se obtuviera sería reinvertido en la fundación.

Any profit that might be obtained would be reinvested in the foundation.

Imperfect subjunctive in a relative clause denoting hypothetical future.

La metodología empleada para obtener los datos ha sido cuestionada.

The methodology used to obtain the data has been questioned.

Passive voice with past participle 'cuestionada'.

Es arduo obtener la aquiescencia de todas las partes involucradas.

It is arduous to obtain the acquiescence of all parties involved.

Use of high-level vocabulary like 'aquiescencia'.

El fin no siempre justifica los medios para obtener el éxito.

The end does not always justify the means to obtain success.

Proverbial/Ethical usage.

Lograron obtener una tregua tras meses de arduas negociaciones.

They managed to obtain a truce after months of arduous negotiations.

Diplomatic/Political context.

Collocations courantes

obtener resultados

obtener permiso

obtener beneficios

obtener información

obtener el título

obtener una beca

obtener acceso

obtener una respuesta

obtener el visto bueno

obtener una ventaja

Phrases Courantes

obtener por respuesta

obtener el primer puesto

obtener la mayoría

obtener el alta

obtener la custodia

obtener el perdón

obtener ganancias

obtener una muestra

obtener la nacionalidad

obtener crédito

Souvent confondu avec

obtener vs conseguir

Conseguir implies effort or struggle; obtener is more about the formal result.

obtener vs lograr

Lograr is for actions/achievements (lograr ganar); obtener is for things (obtener el premio).

obtener vs adquirir

Adquirir is for long-term possession or buying; obtener is for specific items or results.

Expressions idiomatiques

"obtener algo a cambio"

To get something in return for something else.

No hace nada sin obtener algo a cambio.

Neutral

"obtener el fruto de su trabajo"

To reap the rewards of one's hard work.

Finalmente está obteniendo el fruto de su trabajo.

Literary/Formal

"obtener tajada"

To get a slice of the pie (often used for getting a share of money or power, sometimes unfairly).

Todos quieren obtener tajada del nuevo contrato.

Informal/Colloquial

"obtener el beneplácito"

To get approval or consent from an authority.

El proyecto obtuvo el beneplácito del ayuntamiento.

Formal

"obtener luz verde"

To get the green light (permission to proceed).

Obtuvimos luz verde para iniciar la producción.

Business/Informal

"obtener el pasaporte a"

To get the 'passport' or ticket to a new stage or opportunity.

Esta victoria es su obtener el pasaporte a la final.

Journalistic

"obtener una negativa"

To get a 'no' or a rejection.

Solo obtuvo una negativa tras otra.

Formal

"obtener por la fuerza"

To get something by force.

No puedes obtener el respeto por la fuerza.

Neutral

"obtener ventaja de"

To take advantage of a situation or person.

Intentó obtener ventaja de mi falta de experiencia.

Neutral

"obtener el favor de"

To win the favor or support of someone.

Logró obtener el favor del rey.

Formal/Historical

Facile à confondre

obtener vs contener

Similar spelling and same root (tener).

Contener means 'to contain' or 'to hold inside', while obtener means 'to get'.

La caja contiene libros, pero yo obtuve la caja.

obtener vs mantener

Similar spelling and same root.

Mantener means 'to maintain' or 'to keep', while obtener is the initial act of getting.

Es difícil obtener el éxito y más difícil mantenerlo.

obtener vs sostener

Similar spelling and same root.

Sostener means 'to hold up' physically or 'to support' an argument.

Él sostiene el trofeo que obtuvo ayer.

obtener vs detener

Similar spelling and same root.

Detener means 'to stop' or 'to arrest'.

La policía detuvo al hombre que obtuvo el dinero ilegalmente.

obtener vs atenerse

Similar spelling and same root.

Atenerse means 'to abide by' or 'to stick to' (usually with 'a').

Debes atenerte a las reglas para obtener el premio.

Structures de phrases

Quiero obtener [noun].

Quiero obtener un premio.

¿Cómo obtuviste [noun]?

¿Cómo obtuviste mi dirección?

Espero que [subject] obtenga [noun].

Espero que ella obtenga el trabajo.

Para obtener [noun], hay que [verb].

Para obtener el carnet, hay que estudiar.

Se obtuvieron [plural noun] de [source].

Se obtuvieron los datos de la encuesta.

Si [subject] [past subjunctive], obtendría [noun].

Si estudiaras más, obtendrías mejores notas.

Tras haber obtenido [noun], [action].

Tras haber obtenido el permiso, comenzaron la obra.

No es sino mediante [process] que se obtiene [noun].

No es sino mediante el esfuerzo que se obtiene el éxito.

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

High (Top 500 verbs in Spanish).

Erreurs courantes

Yo obteno → Yo obtengo
The first person singular of 'obtener' is irregular and adds a 'g', just like 'tener'.
Él obtenió un premio → Él obtuvo un premio
The preterite tense is irregular and uses the 'uv' stem. 'Obtenió' does not exist.
Obtuve cansado → Me puse cansado / Me cansé
'Obtener' cannot be used for 'to get' in the sense of 'to become'. Use reflexive verbs for changes in state.
Obtuve ganar la carrera → Logré ganar la carrera
'Obtener' is followed by a noun, not an infinitive verb. Use 'lograr' or 'conseguir' for actions.
Obtuve a mi amigo en la estación → Recogí a mi amigo en la estación
'Obtener' is for acquiring things, not for picking up or meeting people.

Astuces

Master the 'uv'

The 'uv' in 'obtuve' is the key to the past tense. Practice saying 'obtuve, obtuviste, obtuvo' like a chant to lock it in.

The 'Obtain' Connection

Whenever you would use 'obtain' in English, 'obtener' is almost certainly the correct choice in Spanish. It's a perfect cognate.

Sound Professional

In a job interview, use 'obtuve' to describe your degrees and past achievements. It sounds much more impressive than 'tuve' or 'saqué'.

Digital Spanish

Change your phone's language to Spanish. You'll see 'obtener' every time you look at the App Store, which is great passive practice.

Avoid 'Obteno'

Remember the 'g' in 'yo obtengo'. It's a common mistake to forget it because 'tener' is so familiar, but 'obtener' follows it exactly.

Bureaucracy Buddy

If you are at a government office, use 'obtener' for all your requests. 'Quiero obtener mi pasaporte' sounds polite and clear.

Obtener vs Lograr

If you can put 'to' after the verb in English (e.g., I managed TO win), use 'lograr'. If you put 'a' or 'the' (e.g., I obtained THE prize), use 'obtener'.

Soft 'B'

Don't pop the 'b' in 'obtener'. Keep your lips slightly apart, making it sound almost like a 'v'. This is a hallmark of a native-like accent.

Passive Voice

In reports, use 'se obtuvo' or 'se obtuvieron'. It makes your writing sound objective and professional.

Family Ties

Group 'obtener' with 'contener', 'mantener', and 'sostener'. They all conjugate the same way. Learn one, learn them all!

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of the English word 'OBTAIN'. They look almost identical. If you can OBTAIN it, you can OBTENER it.

Association visuelle

Imagine a hand reaching out to grab a formal diploma with the word 'OBTENER' written on the sleeve of the graduation gown.

Word Web

obtener resultados obtener permiso obtener información obtener una beca obtener beneficios obtener el título obtener acceso obtener ganancias

Défi

Try to use 'obtener' in three different tenses (present, past, future) while describing your career goals.

Origine du mot

From the Latin 'obtinere', which is composed of 'ob-' (towards, in front of) and 'tenere' (to hold).

Sens originel : To hold, occupy, or maintain possession of something.

Romance (Latin-derived).

Contexte culturel

No specific sensitivities, but using it for people (e.g., 'obtener una mujer') can sound objectifying; use 'conocer' or 'enamorar' instead.

English speakers often over-rely on 'get'. Learning 'obtener' helps them sound more like an educated adult in Spanish.

The 'Obtener' button in the Apple App Store. Academic transcripts (Certificado de Notas) often use 'Obtenido'. Legal documents and contracts.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Education

obtener una beca
obtener el título
obtener buenas notas
obtener un diploma

Business

obtener beneficios
obtener ganancias
obtener un contrato
obtener una ventaja

Technology

obtener acceso
obtener una aplicación
obtener datos
obtener el código

Legal/Official

obtener la visa
obtener el permiso
obtener la nacionalidad
obtener la custodia

Science

obtener resultados
obtener muestras
obtener conclusiones
obtener energía

Amorces de conversation

"¿Qué esperas obtener de este nuevo curso de español?"

"¿Cómo obtuviste tu primer trabajo después de la universidad?"

"¿Es difícil obtener una visa para visitar tu país?"

"¿Qué beneficios crees que podemos obtener de la inteligencia artificial?"

"¿Has obtenido alguna vez un premio importante en un concurso?"

Sujets d'écriture

Escribe sobre un momento en el que tuviste que esforzarte mucho para obtener algo importante.

¿Qué resultados esperas obtener en tu carrera profesional en los próximos cinco años?

Describe el proceso para obtener un documento oficial en tu país (pasaporte, licencia, etc.).

¿Crees que es más importante obtener dinero o obtener felicidad? Explica por qué.

Reflexiona sobre las lecciones que has obtenido de tus errores pasados.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Only partially. 'Obtener' means 'to get' in the sense of acquiring or obtaining something. It cannot be used for 'to become' (get tired), 'to arrive' (get home), or 'to understand' (get it). For those, use 'ponerse', 'llegar', and 'entender'.

It is irregular and follows 'tener'. The forms are: obtuve, obtuviste, obtuvo, obtuvimos, obtuvisteis, obtuvieron. Never say 'obtení' or 'obtenió'.

Use 'obtener' in formal writing, job interviews, and when talking about official documents or scientific results. Use 'conseguir' in everyday conversation or when you want to emphasize the effort you made.

Generally, no. It sounds transactional. If you want to say you 'got' a boyfriend, use 'conseguí novio' (informal) or 'tengo novio'. 'Obtener' is for things, information, or results.

It is common and understood in all Spanish-speaking countries. It is a standard, neutral verb used throughout the Hispanic world, especially in formal contexts.

The noun is 'obtención'. For example: 'La obtención de la visa fue un proceso largo' (Obtaining the visa was a long process).

Yes, it is a transitive verb. You must obtain *something*. You cannot just say 'Yo obtengo' without a noun following it.

Yes! In fact, it is the standard word used in app stores. The 'Get' button is usually 'Obtener'.

'Recibir' is passive (someone gives it to you), while 'obtener' often implies you did something to get it (applied for it, studied for it, etc.).

You can say 'obtener una nota' (formal) or 'sacar una nota' (common). Both are correct.