erlangen
Translation
to attain, to obtain, to gain, to achieve
Examples
Er hat Berühmtheit erlangt.
He has attained fame.
Sie erlangte die Kontrolle über die Firma.
She gained control of the company.
Grammar Patterns
((et4)) to attain/gain sth. He has attained German citizenship.
Similar Words
Synonyms: erreichen, bekommen, gewinnen, erwerben
Etymology
From the prefix 'er-' (indicating achievement through action) and 'langen' (to reach, to suffice). The idea is 'to achieve by reaching for something'.
Memory Tips
Use 'erlangen' for abstract things you gain through effort, like fame, independence, or knowledge. It's more formal than 'bekommen' (to get).