Conclusion
Acquisitive is a word that is often used in the English language, but not everyone knows its meaning. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of acquisitive, its origin, and its associations. We will also look at synonyms and antonyms of the word and provide some example sentences to help you understand how to use it in context.
Definitions
Acquisitive is an adjective that describes someone or something that is eager to acquire or possess things, often to an excessive degree. It can also refer to the act of acquiring or possessing something, especially in a competitive or aggressive way.
Origin
The word acquisitive comes from the Latin word acquirere, which means to acquire or gain. It entered the English language in the late 16th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, acquisitive means “having a strong desire to acquire and possess things.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “having a strong desire to acquire more things.” The Cambridge Dictionary describes it as “wanting to own and collect things, especially material things.”
Associations
Acquisitive is often associated with greed, materialism, and consumerism. It can also be associated with ambition, competitiveness, and a desire for success.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of acquisitive include:
- Greedy.
- Avaricious.
- Covetous.
- Ambitious.
- Competitive.
- Possessive.
- Materialistic.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of acquisitive include:
- Generous.
- Giving.
- Altruistic.
- Selfless.
- Unselfish.
The same root words
There are several other words that come from the same Latin root word as acquisitive, including:
- Acquire.
- Acquisition.
- Acquittal.
- Inquire.
- Inquisitive.
Example Sentences
- She was so acquisitive that she couldn’t resist buying every new gadget that came on the market.
- His acquisitive nature made him a successful businessman, but it also caused him to neglect his family.
- The company’s acquisitive strategy helped it grow rapidly, but it also left it vulnerable to market fluctuations.
- The acquisitive mindset of Western culture has led to rampant consumerism and environmental degradation.
- She was the antithesis of acquisitive, always giving away her possessions and putting others before herself.
Acquisitive is a word that describes a strong desire to acquire or possess things. It can be associated with both positive and negative traits, depending on the context. Understanding the meaning of acquisitive can help you use it effectively in your writing and speech.