Translation guide
The English word 'acquisition' covers several distinct meanings: the act of obtaining something, a company purchase, the process of learning a skill or language, and a thing that has been obtained. Japanese uses different words for each of these, and the most natural choice depends heavily on context.
Expressing the act of acquiring, obtaining, or securing something, such as goods, resources, or rights.
The most common and neutral word for 'acquisition' in the sense of obtaining something, especially in formal or business contexts. It can refer to acquiring data, qualifications, property, etc.
I am aiming to acquire a qualification.
We succeeded in acquiring the data.
Focuses on physically obtaining or getting hold of something, often tangible items or information. Slightly more casual than 取得.
I got hold of a rare book.
Please tell me how to obtain the information.
Implies effort or competition in acquiring something, such as a prize, title, or support. Often used for achievements.
He won (acquired) the gold medal.
We are focusing on acquiring new customers.
Referring to the purchase of one company by another, or the act of taking over a business.
The standard term for a corporate acquisition or buyout. It can be used for both friendly and hostile takeovers.
The company was acquired by a major corporation.
The English abbreviation 'M&A' (mergers and acquisitions) is widely used in Japanese business contexts. Often pronounced as エムアンドエー.
We are looking for a lawyer with extensive M&A experience.
Describing the process of gaining knowledge, language ability, or a skill.
Specifically refers to learning or mastering a skill, language, or technique through study or practice.
Language acquisition takes time.
Can also be used for acquiring skills or knowledge, but often implies a more active or competitive effort, similar to 'gain'.
A very common and natural phrase meaning 'to acquire' a skill or habit, literally 'to attach to oneself'. It emphasizes making something your own.
Referring to the item or asset that was obtained, such as a new possession or a purchased company.
A formal term for an acquired item or asset. Often used in legal or business contexts.
Confirm the ownership of the acquisition.
Refers specifically to the company that has been acquired (the target of an acquisition).
Respect the corporate culture of the acquired company.
A casual, roundabout way to say 'something newly acquired'. Not a direct translation but conveys the idea naturally in conversation.
These three words all mean 'acquisition' but differ in nuance. 取得 (しゅとく) is the most general and formal, often used for rights, data, or qualifications. 入手 (にゅうしゅ) emphasizes physically getting something, often tangible. 獲得 (かくとく) implies effort or competition, like winning a prize or gaining customers. Choose based on what is being acquired and the context.
The direct loanword アクイジション is rarely used in Japanese and sounds unnatural. It is only understood in very specific financial contexts (like 'acquisition finance'), but even then, 買収 or M&A are preferred. Avoid using it.
Acquisition negotiations are underway.
Explicitly means 'corporate acquisition'. Used when you need to be clear that it's a company being bought.
We hired a specialist in corporate acquisitions.
I am working hard on acquiring new skills.
実践的な知識を獲得する。
To acquire practical knowledge.
英語を身につけたい。
I want to acquire English (skills).
It's important to acquire good habits.
This is my new acquisition.