acquire prestige

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "acquire prestige" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing gaining respect, status, or recognition in a particular field or context. Example: "By completing the prestigious project, the company was able to acquire prestige in the industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Kula objects, which sometimes had names and histories attached, were not owned in order to be used but rather to acquire prestige and rank.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Individuals who defy their survival instincts — hunger, pain, fatigue, desire, the fear of death — in the service of a higher power (or for the record books) acquire prestige in most societies.

The New Yorker

Genomma Lab Internacional's bid for Prestige Brands Genomma has announced an unsolicited offer to acquire Prestige at $16.60 a share and nominated a full slate of directors for election at Prestige's annual shareholder meeting on June 29.

The New York Times

That may be the reason why all over the world people spend money to acquire prestige accents such as British received pronunciation, while few people would be attracted to a course teaching "Nigerian English".

The Guardian

One promising explanation is that those who practice noblesse oblige acquire prestige within their groups based on generosity.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It channels students into acquiring prestige degrees rather than gaining marketable skills.

The Economist

"Think of a mailroom clerk acquiring prestige as the captain of the company softball team," Dr. Sapolsky wrote.

The New York Times - Science

By gift, barter or theft, they had acquired prestige goods, and in time their artisans adapted them in their own impressive artistic repertory.

The New York Times - Science

Mr. Leap lists a dozen warning signs that boards should be looking for, and they include: An obsession with acquiring prestige, power and wealth".

The New York Times

Germans, Italians, Jews — all of these people become "white". Part of the question of becoming white is a question of acquiring prestige.

The Washington Post

The son of a free landlord, Shāmil studied grammar, logic, rhetoric, and Arabic, acquired prestige as a learned man, and in 1830 joined the Murīdīs, a Ṣūfī (Islāmic mystical) brotherhood.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to "acquire prestige", focus on demonstrating expertise and contributing meaningfully to your field. Consistent effort and ethical behavior are key to long-term success.

Common error

Don't prioritize superficial markers of prestige (e.g., titles, awards) over genuine skill and knowledge. True prestige comes from demonstrable competence and lasting contributions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "acquire prestige" functions as a verb phrase + noun construction, where 'acquire' is the transitive verb and 'prestige' is the direct object. It describes the action of obtaining or gaining prestige. Ludwig confirms its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "acquire prestige" is a grammatically correct and neutrally-formal expression used to describe the process of gaining respect and status. As highlighted by Ludwig, its usage is more common in news and media, as well as encyclopedic contexts. While not extremely frequent, the phrase is readily understood and serves as a straightforward way to discuss the pursuit and attainment of recognition. To diversify your writing, consider alternatives like "gain recognition" or "attain status". Remember that true prestige is built on genuine accomplishments rather than superficial appearances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gain recognition

Focuses on gaining public acknowledgment or visibility.

attain status

Emphasizes reaching a certain level of social or professional standing.

earn respect

Highlights the process of gaining admiration and high regard through one's actions.

build reputation

Refers to constructing a positive image or standing over time.

establish credibility

Focuses on gaining trustworthiness and reliability.

cultivate influence

Implies developing the power to affect or sway decisions and actions.

secure prominence

Highlights achieving a leading or important position.

garner acclaim

Refers to receiving public praise and admiration.

win favor

Emphasizes gaining approval or support from others.

develop authority

Focuses on establishing oneself as an expert or leader.

FAQs

How can I use "acquire prestige" in a sentence?

You can use "acquire prestige" to describe the act of gaining respect or status through specific actions or achievements. For example, "The scientist hoped to acquire prestige by publishing groundbreaking research."

What's a good alternative to "acquire prestige"?

Alternatives to "acquire prestige" include "gain recognition", "attain status", or "earn respect", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to "acquire prestige" or "earn prestige"?

"Earn prestige" implies a more gradual and merit-based process, while "acquire prestige" can suggest a more active or strategic effort to gain status. The best choice depends on the specific context you're describing.

What does it mean to "acquire prestige" in a particular field?

To "acquire prestige" in a field means to become highly respected and admired by others in that field, typically through achievements, contributions, and recognition of expertise.