verb

anskaffa

acquire

Definition & meaning

The verb anskaffa means to acquire, obtain, procure, or get hold of something. It is typically used when someone goes through the process of getting something that is needed or desired, often implying an effort or a formal procedure.

  • To acquire/procure: To obtain something, often something necessary or of value (e.g., equipment or supplies).
  • To get: A more general use for obtaining something (e.g., getting a new pet or a new piece of furniture).

Grammar & Word origin

anskaffa is a weak verb (infinitive: anskaffa, present tense: anskaffar, past tense: anskaffade, past participle: anskaffat).

The word is a compound of the prefix an- (which can denote approach or addition) and the verb skaffa (to get, to provide). The etymology relates to the idea of "procuring towards oneself." It is a formal term often used in business, administrative, or logistical contexts.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • skaffa (to get/provide)
  • förvärva (to acquire/purchase)
  • införskaffa (to procure/obtain)
  • erhålla (to receive/obtain)
  • köpa (to buy)

Antonyms:

  • göra sig av med (to get rid of/dispose of)
  • förlora (to lose)
  • sälja (to sell)

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Examples

Jag vill anskaffa en cykel.verb

I want to acquire a bicycle.

Företaget anskaffade ny utrustning för arbetet.verb

The company acquired new equipment for the work.

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