Here are some guidelines for the way I would use them: Attainment - something gained after a long consistent effort, like graduating from school or getting a degree/masters/doctorate. Achievement - a more general "gain", but more prestigious or remarkable than an accomplishment. It also suggests a consistent effort. For example, winning a Nobel Prize would be considered an achievement. Recovering from a recession would be an economic achievement for the country. Accomplishment - I would use this for more common or personally set goals (i.e., not necessarily something that you would get a certificate, prize or award for). Example: Reading a book a week for a whole year is quite an accomplishment!