Words / B2

uh-KWEYE-uh/əˈkwaɪə/

To acquire is to get something, often gradually — a skill, a language, a taste, or a company. Get is informal; obtain is more “secure a document”; acquire stresses coming into possession or ability, as in acquire a reputation / knowledge / a habit. Acquisition is the noun (also a business takeover) and a technical term in language learning.

Meaning

To get something, especially knowledge, a skill, or a possession.

Examples

• “Children acquire language by hearing it every day.”
• “She acquired a taste for classical music at university.”
• “The firm acquired two smaller rivals last year.”

Good to know

acquire a skill / language / company. Gradual or formal get. Noun: acquisition.

Near in meaning

gain

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