die Aneignung, -en
acquisition
The German word "Aneignung" is a noun derived from the verb "aneignen", which means "to appropriate" or "to acquire".
- "Eignung" (root word without prefix) means "suitability" or "aptitude".
- The prefix "an-" implies "towards" or "upon".
Aneignung refers to the act of acquiring, adopting, or making something one's own — for example, knowledge, skills, or possessions.
Similar words include:
- "Erwerb" (acquisition) — more general, often used for buying or gaining assets
- "Besitznahme" (takeover, possession) — emphasizes taking physical control
- "Adoption" — used mostly for legal or cultural adoption
Difference:
While Aneignung implies a process of internalizing or making something one's own (often intangible, like knowledge or cultural traits), Erwerb is more neutral and general, and Besitznahme emphasizes physical possession or claiming ownership.
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Examples
Die Aneignung neuer Fähigkeiten erfordert Übung.noun
The acquisition of new skills requires practice.
Wir fördern die Aneignung von Wissen.noun
We promote the acquisition of knowledge.
Bei dem Kurs wurde die Aneignung praktischer Methoden besonders betont.noun
In the course, the acquisition of practical methods was particularly emphasized.
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