erwerben
Translation
to acquire, to purchase, to gain, to earn
Examples
Er möchte ein altes Haus erwerben.
He would like to acquire an old house.
Sie hat sich im Ausland Kenntnisse erworben.
She acquired knowledge abroad.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to acquire/purchase sth. He acquired a large fortune.
sich (dat) ((sth.)) to acquire sth. (for oneself, e.g. skills) She has acquired many skills.
Similar Words
Synonyms: to buy, to obtain, to gain
Etymology
From 'er-' (prefix for achieving) and 'werben' (to strive for, to woo). The idea is to gain something through effort.
Memory Tips
Think of 'werben' as 'working for' something. Through effort, you 'erwerben' it, you acquire it. More formal than 'kaufen' (to buy).