erwirken
Translation
to obtain, to bring about, to achieve, to procure (by legal means)
Examples
Der Anwalt konnte einen Freispruch erwirken.
The lawyer was able to obtain an acquittal.
Durch Verhandlungen konnten wir einen Kompromiss erwirken.
Through negotiations, we were able to bring about a compromise.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to obtain sth. The lawyer was able to obtain an acquittal.
Similar Words
erreichen (to achieve), erzielen (to attain), bewirken (to cause)
Etymology
From the prefix 'er-' (indicating achievement) + 'wirken' (to work, to have an effect). Literally 'to work something into existence'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'working' ('wirken') towards a goal until you 'achieve' ('er-') it. Often used in formal or legal contexts.