Looking up...
獲得
kakutoku
What does "獲得" mean in English?
acquisition彼女は新しい技術を獲得した。
She acquired new technology.
How to use "獲得" correctly: definitions and examples in English?
formal
The act of obtaining or gaining something, especially through effort or a formal process.
資格を獲得するには、試験に合格しなければならない。
To acquire a qualification, you must pass the exam.
そのチームは優勝カップを獲得した。
The team acquired the championship trophy.
Often used in contexts like education, sports, business, or legal matters where something is formally obtained.
Pro Tip
Distinguish from 取得 (shutoku)
While both mean 'acquisition,' 獲得 is broader and often implies effort or achievement, whereas 取得 tends to refer to obtaining something tangible or procedural (e.g., a license).
Gold Rule
Use in formal contexts
獲得 is typically used in formal writing, business, legal, or academic settings. Avoid using it in casual conversation unless emphasizing a significant achievement.
Word Origin
From Middle Chinese 獲得 (kwɐk̚ hʷɐk̚, “to obtain, to gain”). The kanji compound combines 獲 (to seize, to capture) and 得 (to obtain, to acquire).
Usage Notes
This word is commonly used in formal and written contexts. It implies a deliberate, often valuable or significant gain rather than a passive receipt. In legal or academic contexts, it may refer to formal acquisition of rights or qualifications.
Word Breakdown
獲
to seize, to capture
root得
to obtain, to gain
root和英辞典