In French, obtention and acquisition are two important nouns that describe processes of gaining, but they focus on different types of results and contexts.
- Obtention: The act of obtaining—usually the result of effort, request, or official procedure.
- Acquisition: The act of acquiring—emphasizes gaining ownership, control, or possession, often over time.
Both are derived from verbs and are used in formal or semi-formal contexts, making them ideal for expanding vocabulary beyond common everyday terms.
Obtention
Obtention (la obtention) is a feminine noun meaning “obtaining” or “getting.” It refers to the result of a process through which something is obtained, usually something official or formal like a diploma, permit, or authorization.
- Part of speech: Noun (feminine)
- Used for: Results achieved through effort, request, or procedure
- Common contexts: Education, legal matters, official documents
Examples
- L’obtention du diplôme est célébrée chaque année.
(The obtaining of the diploma is celebrated each year.)
- Pour l’obtention du permis, il faut réussir l’examen.
(To obtain the permit, you must pass the exam.)
- Son succès repose sur l’obtention de subventions importantes.
(Her success relies on obtaining significant grants.)
Exercise
Use obtention in three different sentences about:
- School achievements
- Work-related benefits
- Government permissions
Acquisition
Acquisition (l’ acquisition) is a feminine noun meaning “acquisition” or “purchase.” It emphasizes the process or result of gaining possession, ownership, or control—whether of property, skills, or even companies. It often implies a lasting change.
- Part of speech: Noun (feminine)
- Used for: Purchasing, acquiring assets, skills, or knowledge
- Common contexts: Business, real estate, personal development
Examples
- L’acquisition de cette maison a été une bonne décision.
(The acquisition of this house was a good decision.)
- Son acquisition rapide de nouvelles compétences impressionne tout le monde.
(His rapid acquisition of new skills impresses everyone.)
- La société a fait plusieurs acquisitions majeures l’année dernière.
(The company made several major acquisitions last year.)
Exercise
Write three sentences using acquisition about:
- Buying property
- Learning new skills
- Corporate mergers
Differences
| Feature | Obtention | Acquisition |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Obtaining (the result) | Acquisition (ownership/gain) |
| Focus | Result from a process | Gaining possession/control |
| Typical Use | Diplomacy, certificates | Property, skills, business |
| Noun Gender | Feminine | Feminine |
| Common Contexts | Official, formal results | Purchases, investments, growth |
- Obtention is about receiving or securing something tangible or official as a result of effort.
- Acquisition is about gaining control or ownership, often with a long-term perspective.
'Obtention' is used for results like obtaining a diploma, permit, or grant—not for purchases.
'Acquisition' is used for obtaining ownership or control, including property transactions, business deals, and even skill development.
Both 'obtention' and 'acquisition' are feminine nouns in French.
Conclusion
French obtention and acquisition both describe gaining something, but with different focuses:
- Obtention: receiving a result through effort or a formal process.
- Acquisition: gaining ownership, control, or something that becomes yours.
Both are feminine nouns used in more formal contexts, helping you express precise ideas about success and progress.
- Use obtention for results like diplomas, permits, or approvals.
- Use acquisition for buying property, companies, or even new skills.