Acquire: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to gaining something through effort, purchase, or growth over time. Often implies a sense of accomplishment or enhancement.

• She acquired new skills after taking the course.
• It took years to acquire enough capital to start the business.

Formal use for getting or securing something, especially something that requires effort, permission, or is needed for a specific purpose.

• She needs to obtain a visa before traveling abroad.
• The researchers obtained permission to access the archives.

Usually refers to obtaining something desirable or beneficial, often through personal effort or achievement. Can also imply an increase in quantity or degree.

• He gained a lot of experience during his internship.
• The company gained a significant market share last year.

Used in formal contexts when securing something, especially when it involves careful planning or negotiation. Sometimes, it has a slightly technical or commercial tone.

• The hospital managed to procure enough medical supplies for the emergency.
• They had to procure a special permit to host the event.

This word is often used when referring to obtaining something, such as a skill, asset, or possession, usually through effort or purchase.

• He managed to acquire new clients for the company.
• After years of saving, they were able to acquire their dream home.

Used when referring to the process of acquiring knowledge or skill through study, experience, or instruction.

• She is learning to play the piano.
• They learned about the history of the city during the tour.

Commonly used when talking about growth or improvement over time, particularly in skills, abilities, or characteristics.

• He is working hard to develop his leadership skills.
• Over time, the small startup developed into a large corporation.

Typically used when speaking about achieving a particular goal or reaching a specific high level, often after considerable effort.

• She worked hard to attain the highest score in the class.
• After years of practice, he was able to attain mastery in chess.

General use, often implies obtaining something challenging to get or something intangible like knowledge or skills.

• She managed to acquire a rare manuscript
• He acquired new skills during the training

Formal use, often used in professional or official contexts.

• You need to obtain a visa before traveling
• We obtained permission from the authorities

Specific to buying something, usually used for tangible items and in a more formal context than 'buy'.

• They decided to purchase a new car
• Tickets for the concert can be purchased online

Often implies effort or difficulty in getting something, can be used for both tangible and intangible items.

• He managed to secure a contract with the new client
• They secured the building for safety reasons