Definition of Acquire
The verb acquire means to gain, obtain, or come into possession of something, whether tangible or intangible. It can refer to purchasing, learning, or attaining through effort or experience.
Synonyms for Acquire
Strongest Matches (Exact or Near-Exact Synonyms)
- Obtain – To get something, especially through effort or request.
- Gain – To secure something, often through effort or achievement.
- Procure – To acquire something with care or effort.
- Attain – To reach or achieve something, often after effort.
- Secure – To obtain something firmly or permanently.
- Amass – To accumulate a large amount of something over time.
Strong Matches (Similar Meaning, Slight Nuance Differences)
- Collect – To systematically gather or acquire items.
- Receive – To be given or handed something.
- Inherit – To acquire something from a predecessor, typically assets or traits.
- Purchase – To buy something, often implying a transaction.
- Earn – To receive something as a result of effort or merit.
- Gather – To bring together or assemble through effort.
Weak Matches (Contextually Related but Not Direct Synonyms)
- Accept – To willingly receive something.
- Win – To acquire something through competition.
- Adopt – To take something as one’s own, often ideas or practices.
- Develop – To gradually acquire a skill or characteristic.
- Cultivate – To foster the acquisition of something over time.
- Absorb – To take in information or knowledge.
Example Sentences
- She was able to acquire a rare painting from the auction.
- The company hopes to acquire new clients through targeted marketing.
- Over the years, he acquired a reputation for being an excellent negotiator.
- Learning a language is easier when you consistently try to acquire new vocabulary.
- They acquired the land through a government grant.
Contextual Usage of Acquire
- Business & Finance: “The corporation seeks to acquire smaller startups to expand its market reach.”
- Education & Learning: “Students must acquire critical thinking skills to succeed in modern careers.”
- Personal Growth: “He worked hard to acquire confidence in public speaking.”
- Legal & Ownership: “She will acquire the property after completing the legal paperwork.”
- Technology & Digital Assets: “Users can acquire premium features through in-app purchases.”
Related Words
- Acquisition – The process of acquiring something.
- Acquisitive – Having a strong desire to acquire things, often materialistic.
- Acquirement – The act of gaining something.
- Obtainment – The act of obtaining something.
- Possession – The state of having something.
Additional Information
Etymology
The word acquire originates from Middle English aqueren, which stems from Old French acquerre, and ultimately from Latin acquirere (“to gain” or “to add to”).
Common Collocations
- Acquire skills
- Acquire knowledge
- Acquire assets
- Acquire customers
- Acquire land
- Acquire a habit
Idiomatic Expressions
- “Acquire a taste for something” – To gradually develop an appreciation for something.
- “Acquire a reputation” – To develop a particular standing among people over time.
Disclaimer
This page is for informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, language usage can evolve over time. For precise definitions and nuances, consult a reliable dictionary or linguistic expert.
