身につける
彼女は3ヶ月で日本語を身につけた。
She acquired Japanese in three months.
To learn or develop a skill or knowledge through practice and experience.
彼は運転免許を身につけるために毎日練習した。
He practiced every day to acquire his driver's license.
この本を読めば、基本的なプログラミングを身につけることができる。
Reading this book will help you acquire basic programming skills.
Often used for skills that require time and effort to master, not for physical objects.
To wear or put on clothing or accessories.
彼女は新しいコートを身につけて出かけた。
She went out wearing her new coat.
Less common than the skill-acquisition meaning in modern usage.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguish from similar phrases
"身につける" emphasizes the process of acquiring something through effort, while "覚える" (oboeru) can mean both memorization and natural acquisition. Use "身につける" for skills that require practice (e.g., languages, driving).
Gold Rule
Skill vs. Object
Use "身につける" for skills/knowledge, not physical objects. For clothing, "着る" (kiru) or "はく" (haku) is more natural. Example: ×服を身につける → ○服を着る.
Word Origin
身 (body) + に (particle) + つける (to attach/wear). Originally meant 'to wear on the body,' later extended metaphorically to 'to internalize knowledge or skills.'
Usage Notes
The skill-acquisition meaning is far more common in modern Japanese. The literal 'wear' meaning is still valid but less frequently used in everyday speech.