Procure vs Procuress: When To Use Each One In Writing

When it comes to the words “procure” and “procuress,” many people may be confused about their meanings and proper usage. In this article, we will explore the definitions of these two words and clarify any misunderstandings.

Firstly, “procure” is the proper word to use in most situations. It means to obtain or acquire something through effort or action. On the other hand, “procuress” is a rarely used term that refers to a woman who procures prostitutes or manages a brothel.

While these two words may seem similar, they have vastly different meanings and connotations. It is important to use the correct term in order to convey the intended message accurately.

In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the history and usage of these words, as well as provide examples of their proper usage in various contexts.

Define Procure

Procure is a verb that refers to the act of obtaining or acquiring something, often through effort or persuasion. It can also mean to bring about or cause something to happen. The term is commonly used in legal contexts, particularly in relation to the procurement of goods or services.

For example, a company might procure the services of an external consultant to provide expert advice on a particular issue. Alternatively, a government might procure goods such as military equipment or medical supplies for use in a crisis situation.

Procure can also have a more negative connotation, particularly when used in the context of illegal or immoral activities. For instance, a person might procure drugs for personal use, or a criminal might procure stolen goods to sell on the black market.

Define Procuress

A procuress is a female who procures or arranges sexual liaisons, often for financial gain. The term is typically used in a historical context, particularly in relation to the sex trade in Europe during the 16th to 18th centuries.

During this time, procuresses were often associated with brothels and were responsible for procuring clients for the prostitutes who worked there. They were often viewed as immoral and were subject to legal prosecution.

Today, the term procuress is rarely used and is generally considered outdated. Instead, the term pimp or madam is more commonly used to refer to individuals who engage in the procurement of sexual services.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

When it comes to using words properly, it can be easy to confuse similar words with different meanings. In this article, we’ll explore the proper usage of two such words: procure and procuress.

How To Use Procure In A Sentence

Procure is a verb that means to obtain or acquire something, typically through effort or persuasion. Here are some examples of how to use procure in a sentence:

• She was able to procure a new job after months of searching.
• He had to procure a permit before he could begin construction on his property.
• The company was able to procure a large contract with a new client.

As you can see, procure is typically used in situations where someone is obtaining something through effort or persuasion. It can also be used in a more general sense to mean obtaining something, regardless of the effort involved.

How To Use Procuress In A Sentence

Procuress is a noun that refers to a woman who procures prostitutes for others. Here are some examples of how to use procuress in a sentence:

• The police were able to arrest the procuress and shut down her operation.
• The novel features a character who works as a procuress in a seedy part of town.
• Procuresses were common in the red-light districts of many cities throughout history.

As you can see, procuress is a more specific term than procure, and refers specifically to a woman who procures prostitutes for others. It is typically used in a historical context, as procuresses were more common in the past.

More Examples Of Procure & Procuress Used In Sentences

In this section, we will explore more examples of how the words “procure” and “procuress” are used in sentences. Understanding the context in which these words are used can help us better comprehend their meanings and usage.

Examples Of Using Procure In A Sentence

• He was able to procure a rare book from a private collector.
• The company had to procure new equipment to keep up with demand.
• She was accused of using her position to procure favors for her friends.
• The government has been trying to procure more vaccines for the population.
• The team’s manager was able to procure funding for a new training facility.
• He was caught trying to procure drugs from an undercover police officer.
• The chef was able to procure fresh ingredients from the local market.
• She was tasked with procuring catering for the company’s annual gala.
• The museum was able to procure a rare painting for its collection.
• The agent was able to procure a last-minute flight for her client.

Examples Of Using Procuress In A Sentence

• The novel’s protagonist was forced to work as a procuress to survive.
• The police arrested a suspected procuress in a sting operation.
• The movie depicted the life of a notorious procuress in 19th century Paris.
• She was accused of being a procuress for a high-end escort service.
• The historical record shows that many women were forced into becoming procuresses.
• The play explores the complex relationships between a group of procuresses and their clients.
• The brothel was run by a powerful procuress who controlled all aspects of the business.
• She wrote a book about the secret world of procuresses in Renaissance Italy.
• The police investigation uncovered a network of procuresses operating across the city.
• The novel’s antagonist was a wealthy and influential procuress who preyed on vulnerable women.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

It is not uncommon for people to use the words ‘procure’ and ‘procuress’ interchangeably. However, this is a mistake that can lead to confusion and miscommunication. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using these words:

1. Using ‘Procuress’ Instead Of ‘Procure’

One of the most common mistakes people make is using ‘procuress’ instead of ‘procure’. ‘Procure’ means to obtain something, usually through effort or persuasion. On the other hand, ‘procuress’ refers to a woman who procures prostitutes or acts as a go-between in sexual transactions.

For example, saying “I need to find a procuress to help me procure some drugs” is incorrect. The correct sentence would be “I need to find a way to procure some drugs.”

2. Using ‘Procure’ Instead Of ‘Purchase’

Another common mistake is using ‘procure’ instead of ‘purchase’. While both words mean to obtain something, ‘procure’ implies a more difficult or complex process of obtaining something, while ‘purchase’ simply means to buy something.

For example, saying “I need to procure a new laptop” is incorrect. The correct sentence would be “I need to purchase a new laptop.”

3. Using ‘Procure’ Inappropriately

Finally, it is important to use ‘procure’ appropriately. ‘Procure’ is often used in legal or business contexts, and using it in casual conversation can sound overly formal or pretentious.

For example, saying “I need to procure some snacks for the party” is incorrect. The correct sentence would be “I need to get some snacks for the party.”

Tips To Avoid These Mistakes

To avoid these common mistakes, it is important to understand the meanings of both ‘procure’ and ‘procuress’ and use them appropriately. Here are some tips:

• Use ‘procure’ when referring to obtaining something through effort or persuasion in a formal or business context.
• Use ‘purchase’ when referring to buying something in a casual context.
• Avoid using ‘procuress’ altogether, unless you are referring specifically to a woman who procures prostitutes.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “procure” and “procuress,” context plays a crucial role in determining which one to use. Both words have distinct connotations and are used in different contexts, so it’s essential to understand when to use each one correctly.

Procure

The word “procure” is a verb that means to obtain something, typically through effort or skill. It is often used in a professional or business context, where the focus is on acquiring goods or services. For example, a company might procure raw materials from a supplier, or a procurement officer might be responsible for procuring goods and services for an organization.

Here are some examples of how to use “procure” in different contexts:

• The company procured a new software system to improve efficiency.
• The procurement officer was responsible for procuring office supplies.
• The chef procured fresh ingredients from the local market.

Procuress

The word “procuress” is a noun that refers to a woman who procures prostitutes for others or who manages a brothel. It has a negative connotation and is often associated with the sex trade. The word is rarely used in modern English, and when it is, it is typically used in a historical context.

Here are some examples of how to use “procuress” in different contexts:

• The novel is set in the 19th century and features a procuress as one of the characters.
• The painting depicts a group of women in a brothel, with a procuress in the background.
• The play explores the lives of prostitutes and the role of the procuress in their lives.

As you can see, the choice between “procure” and “procuress” depends on the context in which they are used. While “procure” is a versatile verb that can be used in many different contexts, “procuress” is a noun with a specific and negative connotation that is only used in certain historical or literary contexts.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using procure and procuress are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where they may not apply. Here are a few instances where the traditional usage of these words might not be suitable:

1. Historical Context

When discussing historical figures or events, the traditional usage of procure and procuress may not be appropriate. This is because the connotations of these words have changed over time, and what was once considered acceptable may now be seen as offensive or inappropriate.

For example, in the context of medieval times, a procuress was a woman who arranged marriages or sexual liaisons for others. While this may have been seen as a legitimate profession at the time, it is now viewed as exploitative and demeaning.

Similarly, the term “procurement” was used in the past to refer to the act of obtaining goods or services through illegal or unethical means. Today, this usage is considered archaic and potentially offensive.

2. Regional Differences

The usage of procure and procuress may also vary depending on the region or country in which they are being used. In some places, these words may have different connotations or meanings than they do in other parts of the world.

For example, in some cultures, a procuress may be seen as a respected matchmaker or mediator, rather than as someone who arranges sexual encounters. Similarly, the term “procurement” may have different legal or ethical implications in different countries, depending on local laws and customs.

3. Contextual Nuances

Finally, the usage of procure and procuress may be influenced by the specific context in which they are being used. In some cases, the meaning of these words may be influenced by other factors, such as the tone of the conversation or the intended audience.

For example, in a legal setting, the term “procurement” may be used to refer specifically to the act of obtaining goods or services through illegal means. In a more casual conversation, however, the same term may be used more broadly to refer to any type of acquisition or acquisition process.

In conclusion, while the rules for using procure and procuress are generally clear-cut, there are some exceptions where their usage may be more nuanced or complex. By understanding these exceptions and their underlying reasons, writers and speakers can use these words more effectively and appropriately in a variety of contexts.

Practice Exercises

Now that we have explored the meanings and usage of procure and procuress, it’s time to put our knowledge to the test. Below are some practice exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these words in sentences. Make sure to read the instructions carefully before attempting each exercise.

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank

Choose the correct word (procure or procuress) to fill in the blank in each of the following sentences:

1. She was accused of acting as a __________ for the local brothel.
2. He had to __________ a new passport before he could leave the country.
3. The company was able to __________ a large contract with a new client.
4. The __________ was arrested and charged with soliciting prostitution.
5. His job was to __________ supplies for the construction project.

Answer Key:

Sentence	Correct Word
1	procuress
2	procure
3	procure
4	procuress
5	procure

Exercise 2: Sentence Completion

Complete each sentence with the correct form of procure or procuress:

1. The __________ was known for luring young women into a life of prostitution.
2. He was able to __________ the necessary funding for his startup.
3. She was accused of acting as a __________ for the drug cartel.
4. It is illegal to __________ drugs without a prescription.
5. The company was able to __________ a new supplier for their raw materials.

Answer Key:

Sentence	Correct Word
1	procuress
2	procure
3	procuress
4	procure
5	procure

These practice exercises should help you feel more confident in using procure and procuress correctly in your writing. Remember to pay attention to context and connotation when choosing which word to use.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the difference between “procure” and “procuress” is essential for effective communication and avoiding misunderstandings.

Here are the key takeaways from this article:

Procure:

• Means to obtain something, usually through effort or action
• Can be used in both formal and informal contexts
• Has a positive connotation when used appropriately
• Can be a verb or a noun

Procuress:

• Refers to a woman who procures clients for a prostitute or brothel
• Has a negative connotation and is considered outdated and offensive
• Should be avoided in modern language use

It is important to carefully consider the context and connotations of words when using them in communication.

As language is constantly evolving, it is also important to continue learning and staying up-to-date on proper grammar and language use.

Thank you for reading and happy learning!