an|eignen
Translation
to acquire, to learn, to master, to appropriate
Examples
Er hat sich viel Wissen angeeignet.
He has acquired a lot of knowledge.
Sie eignet sich schnell neue Fähigkeiten an.
She quickly acquires new skills.
Grammar Patterns
sich(3) ((et4)) aneignen to acquire sth. Er hat sich viel Wissen angeeignet.
Similar Words
Synonyms: erlernen, erwerben, lernen; Antonyms: verlernen, vergessen
Etymology
Composed of 'an-' (on, to oneself) and 'eignen' (from 'eigen', meaning 'own'). The literal sense is 'to make something one's own'.
Memory Tips
Focus on 'eigen' (own). When you 'aneignen' knowledge, you are making it your own. Remember it's reflexive: 'sich etwas aneignen'.