acquisitive - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
acquisitive Word Meanings
- eager to acquire wealth or possessions
- having a strong desire to gain more, especially material things
acquisitive Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
acquisitive Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈkwɪzɪtɪv/
US
/əˈkwɪzɪtɪv/
acquisitive Word Etymology
(aquisitive: ad + quisit, where 'ad' means towards and 'quisit' relates to seeking) → Latin 'acquisit-' (to acquire) → Old French 'acquisit' → English; Picture a person reaching out with open hands towards a pile of coins, eager to grasp them, representing the desire to acquire material wealth.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Acquisitive describes a strong, often greedy, desire to acquire more possessions or wealth. It can apply to individuals who hoard, seek deals, or constantly chase possessions, sometimes implying a restless, money-driven mindset rather than a balanced thrift. In use, the word carries a critical nuance, suggesting envy of others’ gains or a focus on accumulation over generosity. Acquisitive behavior may appear in business, politics, or consumer culture, where success is measured by assets and acquisitions. It is not purely negative—one can be acquisitive about knowledge or skills in a constructive, disciplined way—but the tone usually hints at excess or material obsession.
Usage Reminders
- Acquisitive often carries a critical or negative tone regarding materialism.
- It is not the same as ambitious or competitive.
- Look for common collocations like acquisitive mindset or acquisitive society.
- Use it to describe attitudes, not people’s entire character.
- Balance with more neutral terms if you want a softer tone.
Common Misconceptions
- It only means greedy all the time.
- It refers exclusively to buying stuff, not valuing ideas.
- It is the same as covetous or greedy.
- It always has a negative tone, never neutral.
- It cannot describe attitudes toward knowledge or skills.
Thinking Differences
Acquisitive in English often carries a negative, critical nuance about material greed; learners should note that it describes attitude rather than a positive ambition and can clash with terms like generous or content.
Learning Tips
- Notice the negative tone in many contexts and choose alternatives if needed.
- Compare acquisitive with ambitious, greedy, and materialistic to spot nuances.
- Practice with collocations like acquisitive mindset and acquisitive society.
- Write one sentence about a person’s attitude, not their entire character.
- Listen for tone cues in news or opinion pieces to gauge usage.
- Create diverse examples: consumer culture, business, and personal growth contexts.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'acquisitive' mean?
A.Having a strong desire to acquire and possess
B.Being uninterested in material possessions
C.Eager to give away possessions
D.Having a tendency to donate resources
Step 2: Usage
Identify the correct usage of 'acquisitive' in a sentence.
A.The acquiescent child accepted the gifts with joy.
B.The acquisitive businessman always sought new investments.
C.Her acquiescent nature made her popular among peers.
D.He was acquiescent about his rapidly growing collection.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'acquisitive'?
A.Generous
B.Greedy
C.Charitable
D.Selfless
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'acquisitive'?
A.Possessive
B.Materialistic
C.Altruistic
D.Avaricious
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might exhibit 'acquisitive' behavior?
A.He often donates to charities and helps those in need.
B.He constantly seeks additional properties to add to his portfolio.
C.They have a strong interest in learning about other people's successes.
D.She collects art from various cultures around the world.
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