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Acquisitive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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acquisitive

[ษ™หˆkwษชz.ษช.tษชv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

desire for wealth

The term 'acquisitive' describes a strong desire to acquire and possess things, particularly wealth, material goods, or information. An acquisitive person is often eager to gather more possessions or knowledge, sometimes to the point of being greedy or insatiable. This behavior can manifest in various contexts, including business, personal relationships, and even in intellectual pursuits. The term is often used to highlight the negative aspects of wanting to possess more than what one needs.

Synonyms

avaricious, greedy, materialistic, possessive.

Examples of usage

  • The acquisitive nature of the company led to numerous mergers.
  • His acquisitive mindset made him a successful investor.
  • Many acquisitive individuals struggle with contentment.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Economics

  • Being acquisitive can lead to a competitive market, as individuals or companies try to accumulate resources.
  • In capitalist economies, acquisitive behavior is often rewarded, promoting personal wealth and investment.
  • Critics argue that excessive acquisitive behavior can lead to materialism and social inequality.

Psychology

  • Acquisitive tendencies can be linked to feelings of insecurity or the need for control.
  • Studies suggest that those with high acquisitiveness may experience less overall happiness, as material possessions donโ€™t provide lasting fulfillment.
  • Understanding one's acquisitive nature can promote self-awareness and healthier consumption habits.

Literature

  • The concept of acquisitiveness often appears in character studies, portraying greedy or materialistic figures.
  • Classic novels frequently critique acquisitive behaviors, as seen in works by Charles Dickens, highlighting moral lessons.
  • In modern literature, characters displaying acquisitive traits often experience personal conflicts as they value material over relationships.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures view acquisitiveness in varying lights; some may see it as ambition, while others may criticize it as greed.
  • In certain Eastern philosophies, being overly acquisitive is discouraged, promoting simplicity and contentment instead.
  • In Western cultures, success is often linked to one's ability to acquire wealth and possessions, influencing societal values.

Origin of 'acquisitive'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'acquisitio', meaning 'to gain' or 'to acquire'.
  • The prefix 'ac-' means 'to' or 'toward', enhancing the idea of gaining.
  • It was first used in English in the late 19th century to describe a strong desire to obtain.
  • Related terms include 'acquire' and 'acquisition', which all relate to gaining ownership.

The word 'acquisitive' has its roots in the Latin verb 'acquirere,' which means 'to acquire.' This verb is a combination of the prefix 'ad-' meaning 'to' or 'towards' and 'quaerere,' which means 'to seek' or 'to ask.' Over time, the word evolved into the Middle French 'acquisitif' before being absorbed into the English language in the late 19th century. Initially used to describe a general propensity for acquisition, the term gradually took on specific connotations of greed and materialism. In contemporary usage, 'acquisitive' often carries a negative connotation, especially when referring to individuals who are excessively driven by the desire to amass wealth or possessions, reinforcing societal critiques of consumerism.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,710, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.