There is a slight difference, as you thought: Achieve - through a struggle or great effort, one can successfully accomplish something; this can be a mental effort as well as a physical one. EX: She achieved her goal after four long years of vigorous study and hard work. EX: Achieving a doctorate level of education was her dream; one that she would struggle with if not serious in her studies. Attain - although one can make some effort in order to attain something, it more often refers to accomplishing something with less effort OR getting something with no effort at all. EX: She, at last, attained a new car from her father. EX: After a long life, filled with ups and down, Mary attained the age of 96. Hope this helps! Good luck! :)

achieve & attain: to gain with effort "she achieved her goal despite setbacks" "she attained her goal despite setbacks"

achieve = accomplish, acquire = attain it means gain or reach sht by effort , get sht done- your aim = achievement attain succeed in getting sth : achieve sth . or abiltry success in achieving