Are you confused about the difference between acquire and reacquire? It’s a common misconception that these two words can be used interchangeably, but in reality, they have distinct meanings. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between acquire and reacquire, and when to use each one.
Acquire is the proper word to use when you are obtaining something for the first time. It means to gain or obtain possession of something, such as a skill, knowledge, or physical object. Reacquire, on the other hand, is used when you are obtaining something that you previously had but lost. It means to regain possession of something that was lost or taken away.
Now that we’ve established the difference between these two words, let’s dive deeper into when and how to use them effectively.
Acquire
Acquire is a verb that means to gain possession or control of something, typically through one’s own efforts or actions. It can refer to obtaining something for the first time, or to adding something to an existing collection or inventory. Acquiring something can involve purchasing, trading, bartering, or receiving it as a gift or inheritance.
Reacquire
Reacquire is a verb that means to regain possession or control of something that was previously owned or held. It implies that the thing in question was lost, sold, stolen, or otherwise separated from its original owner, and that the owner is now seeking to reclaim it. Reacquiring something can involve buying it back, negotiating for its return, or using legal means to recover it.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
Using the right word in a sentence can make all the difference in conveying the intended message. In this section, we will discuss how to properly use the words “acquire” and “reacquire” in a sentence.
How To Use “Acquire” In A Sentence
The word “acquire” means to obtain or gain possession of something. Here are some examples of how to use “acquire” in a sentence:
- She hopes to acquire a new skill by taking a class.
- The company plans to acquire a smaller competitor.
- He was able to acquire the rare book for a reasonable price.
As you can see from the examples, “acquire” is used to describe obtaining something that was not previously possessed.
How To Use “Reacquire” In A Sentence
“Reacquire” means to regain possession of something that was previously lost or given away. Here are some examples of how to use “reacquire” in a sentence:
- After losing the championship last year, the team hopes to reacquire the title this season.
- The company was able to reacquire the rights to their trademark.
- He had to reacquire his driver’s license after it was suspended.
As you can see from the examples, “reacquire” is used to describe regaining possession of something that was previously owned or possessed.
More Examples Of Acquire & Reacquire Used In Sentences
In order to further understand the proper usage of the words ‘acquire’ and ‘reacquire’, it is important to examine more examples of how they are used in sentences. Below are some examples of using ‘acquire’ in a sentence:
- He was able to acquire a rare book from the library.
- The company plans to acquire a new office building.
- She hopes to acquire the necessary skills to succeed in her new job.
- They were able to acquire a large amount of funding for their startup.
- The athlete worked hard to acquire the title of champion.
- The museum was able to acquire a valuable piece of artwork for its collection.
- He was able to acquire a taste for spicy food over time.
- The team hopes to acquire a new player before the trade deadline.
- She was able to acquire a new language through immersion.
- He was able to acquire a new perspective on life after traveling abroad.
On the other hand, below are some examples of using ‘reacquire’ in a sentence:
- The company was able to reacquire the rights to their trademark.
- He hopes to reacquire the trust of his colleagues after his mistake.
- The athlete was able to reacquire his title after a period of injury.
- The company plans to reacquire the shares of its subsidiary.
- She was able to reacquire her passion for art after a period of burnout.
- The team hopes to reacquire its winning streak after a series of losses.
- He was able to reacquire his childhood home after it went up for sale.
- The company was able to reacquire a valuable patent that was previously sold.
- She hopes to reacquire her former level of fitness after a period of inactivity.
- He was able to reacquire his love for music after a period of disinterest.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to using the words “acquire” and “reacquire,” there are some common mistakes that people make. One of the most significant mistakes is using these words interchangeably. While they may seem similar, there are distinct differences between the two that should not be overlooked.
Using Acquire And Reacquire Interchangeably
One of the most common mistakes people make is using “acquire” and “reacquire” interchangeably. While the two words may seem similar, they have different meanings and implications. “Acquire” means to gain possession of something for the first time, while “reacquire” means to regain possession of something that was previously lost or taken away.
For example, if you purchase a new car, you can say that you have acquired a new car. However, if your car was stolen and then you recovered it, you can say that you have reacquired your car. Using “acquire” in the latter scenario would be incorrect because you are not gaining possession of something for the first time.
Tips For Avoiding These Mistakes
To avoid these common mistakes, it’s essential to understand the meanings of “acquire” and “reacquire” and use them appropriately. Here are some tips to help:
- Take the time to understand the context in which you are using these words.
- Double-check your usage to ensure that you are using the correct word.
- If you are unsure, look up the definition of the word to confirm your understanding.
By following these tips, you can avoid common mistakes and use “acquire” and “reacquire” with confidence and accuracy.
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between the words “acquire” and “reacquire,” context is key. The nuances of each word can change depending on the situation in which they are used.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between “acquire” and “reacquire” might change:
| Context | Choice between “Acquire” and “Reacquire” |
|---|---|
| Business | In the context of business, “acquire” is often used to refer to the process of obtaining a new company or asset. On the other hand, “reacquire” might be used to refer to the process of regaining ownership of a company or asset that was previously owned. |
| Relationships | In the context of relationships, “acquire” might be used to refer to the process of starting a new relationship or obtaining a new friend. “Reacquire,” on the other hand, might be used to refer to the process of reconnecting with an old friend or rekindling a previous romantic relationship. |
| Real Estate | In the context of real estate, “acquire” might be used to refer to the process of buying a new property. “Reacquire” might be used to refer to the process of buying back a property that was previously owned. |
As you can see, the choice between “acquire” and “reacquire” can depend heavily on the context in which they are used. It’s important to consider the specific nuances of each word in order to choose the one that best fits the situation at hand.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the general rule is to use “acquire” for obtaining something for the first time and “reacquire” for obtaining something again, there are some exceptions to this rule.
Exceptions For “Acquire”
- Legal Terminology: In legal terminology, “acquire” can refer to obtaining something through a legal process, such as acquiring property through a court order.
- Business Terminology: In business terminology, “acquire” can refer to obtaining a company or its assets through a merger or acquisition.
- Specialized Industries: In specialized industries, such as medicine or science, “acquire” can refer to obtaining data or information through research or experimentation.
Exceptions For “Reacquire”
- Lost or Stolen Property: If something has been lost or stolen and then recovered, it can be considered “reacquired.”
- Regaining a Skill: If someone has previously possessed a skill or ability and then lost it, they can be said to “reacquire” that skill or ability.
- Reclaiming Ownership: If someone has previously owned something and then lost ownership, they can be said to “reacquire” ownership of that item.
It is important to note that these exceptions are not always clear-cut and can vary depending on the context in which they are used.
Practice Exercises
One of the best ways to improve your understanding and use of acquire and reacquire is through practice exercises. Here are some exercises that will help you become more familiar with these two words:
Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank
Fill in the blank with either acquire or reacquire:
- After losing his job, he had to __________ his skills in order to find new employment.
- The company was able to __________ the rights to their trademark.
- She was determined to __________ the trust of her colleagues after her mistake.
- The museum was able to __________ a rare painting for their collection.
Answer Key:
- reacquire
- acquire
- reacquire
- acquire
Exercise 2: Sentence Completion
Complete the following sentences with either acquire or reacquire:
- It is important to __________ new skills in order to advance in your career.
- After losing her phone, she had to __________ a new one.
- The company was able to __________ the trust of their customers after the scandal.
- He was determined to __________ his reputation after the accusations.
Answer Key:
- acquire
- acquire
- reacquire
- reacquire
Exercise 3: Multiple Choice
Choose the correct word to complete the sentence:
- After losing his job, he had to __________ his skills.
- a) acquire
- b) reacquire
- a) acquire
- b) reacquire
- a) acquire
- b) reacquire
- a) acquire
- b) reacquire
Answer Key:
- b) reacquire
- a) acquire
- b) reacquire
- a) acquire
Conclusion
In conclusion, the difference between acquire and reacquire is a matter of context. Acquire refers to obtaining something for the first time, while reacquire refers to obtaining something again after losing or giving it up. Understanding the nuances of these terms is crucial in effective communication and avoiding misunderstandings.
It is important to note that language use and grammar are constantly evolving, and it is essential to continue learning and staying up-to-date with changes. By investing time in improving language skills, individuals can enhance their communication abilities and achieve greater success in their personal and professional lives.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.