acquire a basic knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "acquire a basic knowledge" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of gaining fundamental understanding or skills in a particular subject or area. Example: "Before starting the advanced course, students are encouraged to acquire a basic knowledge of the subject matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

To acquire a basic knowledge on GMO production, GM-food consumption, GMO interaction with humans and environment is of primary importance for risk assessment.

Biotechnology Annual Review

Our web-based education program was useful in helping parents to acquire a basic knowledge of schizophrenia and discriminate correctly the symptoms of this disorder.

BMC Public Health

Our web-based education program was useful in helping parents acquire a basic knowledge of schizophrenia and discriminate correctly the symptoms of schizophrenia.

BMC Public Health

Acquire a basic knowledge of Aramaic grammar.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

There young Conrad acquired a basic knowledge of plants and their medicinal uses that led to a lifelong interest in natural history.

Encyclopedia Britannica

From the age of eight he attended his native village's primary school, where he acquired a basic knowledge of the Wujing (Confucian Classics).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Develop a basic knowledge of good and bad.

WikiHow

Drawing on data from the literature review (among others: Girginov 2011; Gold and Gold 2008; Raco 2004; Raco and Tunney 2010; Smith 2014; Thornley 2012; Watt 2013) and existing documentation (i.e., websites on the topic, the bid book and the London Plan), a basic knowledge was acquired, especially regarding London local governance and the 2012 Olympics management policies.

City, Territory and Architecture

CERN's official languages are English and French, so if you want to work there you'll need a good working knowledge of one, and it's desirable that you have a basic knowledge of the other (or demonstrate a willingness to acquire it... CERN runs English and French language lessons for its employees).

Science Magazine

However, a basic knowledge of the law is important.

WikiHow

Have a basic knowledge of US history and government.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "acquire a basic knowledge", clearly specify the subject area to provide context and relevance. For example, "acquire a basic knowledge of programming".

Common error

Avoid using "acquire a basic knowledge" when describing advanced skills. This phrase is best suited for conveying an introductory level of understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "acquire a basic knowledge" functions as a verbal phrase, indicating the action of obtaining fundamental understanding. It suggests the initial stage of learning a subject or skill, as supported by Ludwig's examples which showcase varied fields of application.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

41%

Wiki

16%

News & Media

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "acquire a basic knowledge" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote the process of gaining a fundamental understanding in a specific area. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. While alternatives like "gain a fundamental understanding" or "develop a foundational understanding" exist, "acquire a basic knowledge" remains a clear and effective choice. It is important to use this phrase when referring to introductory levels of understanding and to specify the subject area for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gain a fundamental understanding

Replaces "acquire" with "gain" and "basic knowledge" with "fundamental understanding", emphasizing comprehension.

develop a foundational understanding

Substitutes "acquire" with "develop" and "basic knowledge" with "foundational understanding", highlighting the process of building understanding.

obtain essential knowledge

Replaces "acquire" with "obtain" and "basic" with "essential", focusing on acquiring necessary information.

build a rudimentary knowledge

Uses "build" instead of "acquire" and "rudimentary" instead of "basic", suggesting a foundational level of knowledge.

cultivate a working knowledge

Replaces "acquire" with "cultivate" and "basic knowledge" with "working knowledge", implying practical application.

secure a preliminary understanding

Substitutes "acquire" with "secure" and "basic knowledge" with "preliminary understanding", focusing on gaining initial comprehension.

attain a basic grasp

Uses "attain" instead of "acquire" and "grasp" instead of "knowledge", suggesting a mental hold on the information.

gather rudimentary knowledge

Replaces "acquire" with "gather" and "basic" with "rudimentary", emphasizing the collection of foundational information.

foster a fundamental awareness

Substitutes "acquire" with "foster" and "basic knowledge" with "fundamental awareness", highlighting the development of awareness.

learn the basics

Simplifies the phrase to a shorter, more direct form, focusing on learning fundamental concepts.

FAQs

How can I use "acquire a basic knowledge" in a sentence?

You can use "acquire a basic knowledge" to describe the process of gaining fundamental understanding in a specific area. For instance, "Students must "acquire a basic knowledge" of mathematics before advancing to calculus".

What are some alternatives to "acquire a basic knowledge"?

Alternatives include "gain a fundamental understanding", "develop a foundational understanding", or "obtain essential knowledge", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "acquire basic knowledge" or "gain basic knowledge"?

Both "acquire basic knowledge" and "gain basic knowledge" are correct and commonly used. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific nuance you wish to convey. However, gain may imply a more gradual process.

What's the difference between "acquire a basic knowledge" and "master a subject"?

"Acquire a basic knowledge" suggests gaining an introductory level of understanding, while "master a subject" implies achieving a high level of proficiency and expertise.