Distinguishing Between Acquire & Obtain

Key Difference – Acquire vs Obtain

The two verbs acquire and obtain can be used synonymously in certain instances. However, not all of their meanings are the same. To understand the difference between these two verbs, it is crucial to examine their various meanings. The primary distinction between acquire and obtain is that acquire can refer to the development or learning of a new skill, habit, or quality, while obtain does not have this meaning. Both acquire and obtain are transitive verbs and cannot be used without an object.

What Does Acquire Mean?

The verb acquire essentially has two meanings:

1. To gain possession of/buy an object or an asset
2. To learn or develop a skill, habit, or quality

The noun form of this verb is acquisition. As seen from the examples above, obtain is similar to the first meaning of acquire. Obtain cannot be used to refer to the acquisition of a skill, habit, or quality.

What Does Obtain Mean?

Obtain means to get or gain something. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, obtain means “to gain or get (something) usually by effort.” Thus, obtaining something involves effort.

What is the difference between Acquire and Obtain?

Definition:

– Acquire means:
1. To gain possession of/buy an object or an asset
2. To learn or develop a skill, habit, or quality
– Obtain means to gain or attain, usually by planned action or effort.

New Habits, Skills:

– Acquire can refer to the development of new skills, qualities, and habits.
– Obtain cannot refer to the development of new skills, qualities, or habits.