acquire an interest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "acquire an interest" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing gaining a stake or involvement in something, such as a business, project, or topic. Example: "After much consideration, I decided to acquire an interest in the startup to help it grow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Members of the exchange, who own seats that allow them to trade on the floor, will acquire an interest in both companies.

The New York Times

So Rivers, who wound up running the business, was forced to neglect his original interest in political polling and acquire an interest in market research.

The New York Times - Magazine

The pictures in the nursery were changed often, so that she would acquire an interest in art, and her mother told her that there is no Father Christmas.

The New Yorker

A Chinese company, the Huaneng Group, has agreed to pay $227 million for half of OzGen, an Australian unit of InterGen, to acquire an interest in two coal-fired generators.

The New York Times

This should not be overlooked in any examination of Mr. Mitchell, because special ists in state and municipal fi nancing instinctively acquire an interest in the status quo, an ingrained appreciation for social and economic stability.

The New York Times

Soccer's expanding popularity is one of globalization's more potent manifestations -- and one of the few not driven by American culture -- as evidenced by the government of soccer-crazed Thailand's ill-advised efforts to acquire an interest in the English Premier League's venerable Liverpool team.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

He also began acquiring an interest, often a controlling interest, in many logging and milling operations.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 2007, he announced that his affiliates had acquired an interest in Steak 'n Shake.

The New York Times

Sweden, which also had acquired an interest in the area, seized northern Estonia.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Meanwhile, NorthStar S.I.C. Holding, a joint venture involving a New Mexico state fund, had acquired an interest in Antares.

The New Yorker

A person who, in good faith, acquires an interest in land from the person registered is protected.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "acquire an interest" in a business context, be specific about the type and extent of the interest being acquired (e.g., "a controlling interest", "a minority stake", "an equity interest").

Common error

Avoid using "acquire an interest" vaguely. Instead of saying "The company acquired an interest in the project", specify what that interest entails: "The company acquired a 25% stake in the project's profits."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "acquire an interest" functions as a verb phrase where "acquire" is the main verb and "an interest" is the direct object. It typically indicates the action of gaining possession or control of a stake or share in something, whether tangible or intangible. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "acquire an interest" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, primarily functioning as a verb phrase to denote gaining a stake, share, or involvement in something. While it can be used in general contexts, it is more frequently found in news, encyclopedias, and professional settings. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides varied examples. Alternative phrases such as "gain a stake" or "take an interest in" can be used depending on the context, as shown in the Ludwig examples. When writing, ensure that the specific type and extent of the interest are clearly defined to avoid vagueness. The phrase is also used when referring to someone developing a liking for something.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gain a stake

This alternative emphasizes the aspect of obtaining ownership or a share in something.

obtain a share

Similar to "gain a stake", this highlights the acquisition of a portion or part of something.

secure an interest

Suggests that effort was required to gain said interest.

procure a stake

Synonymous with 'gain a stake' but is more formal.

take an interest in

This implies a conscious decision to become involved or concerned with something.

become involved in

This highlights the aspect of active participation and engagement.

develop an enthusiasm

This focuses on the emotional aspect of gaining interest in a topic or activity.

cultivate an interest

This suggests a more gradual and intentional process of developing interest.

build an involvement

Similar to building a relationship, it implies developing a deeper level of committment.

assume control

This phrase is adequate when 'interest' refers to shares in a company.

FAQs

What does "acquire an interest" mean?

To "acquire an interest" means to gain a stake, share, or involvement in something, such as a company, project, or topic. It often implies obtaining some level of ownership or control.

How to use "acquire an interest" in a sentence?

You can use "acquire an interest" when discussing gaining a stake or involvement in something. For example: "The corporation plans to acquire an interest in several new ventures this year."

What are some alternatives to "acquire an interest"?

Alternatives include "gain a stake", "obtain a share", or "take an interest in", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "acquired an interest" or "took an interest"?

While both are correct, "acquired an interest" often implies a more formal or official acquisition, particularly in business or legal contexts. "Took an interest" suggests a more general engagement or curiosity. For instance, you may "take an interest" in politics but "acquire an interest" in a rival company.