we acquired

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we acquired" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the purchase or obtaining of something, typically in a business or formal context. Example: "In the last quarter, we acquired a new software company to enhance our technological capabilities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"We acquired an asset.

The New York Times - Sports

"We knew that when we acquired them.

The New York Times

"We acquired it for a reason".

The New York Times

"He's been an asset since we acquired him," Cashman said.

The New York Times - Sports

Second, we acquired for the sake of acquisition, mindlessly consuming.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Then we acquired a discipline for our anarchy".

The Guardian

It is a young group of players we acquired.

The Guardian - Sport

We acquired the fee -- the land -- at 515 Madison.

The New York Times

In 2008, we acquired Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

The New York Times

In 1998, we acquired Howmedica, Pfizer's medical devices division.

The New York Times

"We acquired him in '07 at the deadline," Holland said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we acquired", ensure the context clearly indicates what was obtained, from whom, and the method of acquisition. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "we acquired" without specifying what exactly was acquired. Instead of saying "We acquired something new," state explicitly what it is: "We acquired a new software license."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we acquired" functions as a transitive verb phrase, indicating that the subject ('we') performed the action of obtaining or gaining possession of something. Ludwig examples showcase diverse applications, from acquiring assets to skills.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

19%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we acquired" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to convey that a subject (typically a group or organization) has obtained or come into possession of something. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use in news, science, and business contexts. When using this phrase, clarity is key: specify what was acquired. While synonyms like "obtained" and "purchased" exist, they carry slightly different connotations. Remember the distinction when writing to achieve a better communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we obtained

Focuses on the act of gaining or receiving something, often through effort or request.

we purchased

Specifically refers to acquiring something by paying for it.

we procured

Suggests acquiring something, often with effort or careful planning, sometimes implying official or formal acquisition.

we secured

Implies making something safe and ensuring its possession or availability.

we gained possession of

Emphasizes the act of taking control or ownership of something.

we came into possession of

A more formal way of saying 'we obtained', emphasizing the transition of ownership.

we took ownership of

Highlights the act of assuming responsibility and control over something.

we assumed control of

Focuses on gaining power or command over something, not necessarily ownership.

we inherited

Indicates acquiring something as a result of someone's death or through lineage.

we collected

Implies gathering or accumulating items over time.

FAQs

What's the difference between "we acquired" and "we obtained"?

While both phrases suggest gaining something, "we acquired" often implies a more formal or strategic process, such as acquiring a company, whereas "we obtained" can refer to a broader range of situations where something was received or gained.

When is it appropriate to use "we acquired" in a sentence?

It's appropriate when you want to convey that your organization or group has come into possession of something, usually through purchase, merger, or strategic acquisition. For example, "We acquired a new patent" or "We acquired a competitor company".

What are some synonyms for "we acquired" that I can use in different contexts?

Depending on the context, you can use synonyms such as "we purchased", "we obtained", "we procured", or "we secured".

Is "we acquired" formal or informal language?

"We acquired" is generally considered to be neutral to formal language suitable for business reports, news articles, and academic writing. It's less common in informal conversation, where phrases like "we got" might be preferred.