Vocabulary word Acquisitive - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

ACT 4 (American College Testing)

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High School 13

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Wealth and Desire

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Dictionary Definition of acquisitive

Having a strong inclination or desire to acquire or possess things, often material possessions or wealth.
"His acquisitive nature led him to amass a vast collection of antique cars."

Detailed Meaning of Acquisitive

It characterizes individuals who are driven by a constant pursuit of accumulating resources, belongings, or achievements. An acquisitive person tends to exhibit a relentless ambition to obtain more, seeking to expand their personal possessions or influence. This adjective suggests a propensity for accumulation and a focus on personal gain, sometimes at the expense of others. It can also describe a society or culture that values material wealth and encourages the acquisition of possessions as a measure of success. However, it is important to note that being acquisitive does not necessarily imply negative intentions, as it can also be driven by a genuine passion for collecting, achieving goals, or building a legacy.

Example Sentences for Acquisitive

1. His acquisitive nature led him to collect rare coins.
2. The acquisitive attitude of the billionaire was well-known.
3. She has an acquisitive mindset when it comes to fashion.
4. Their acquisitive behavior strained family relationships.
5. An acquisitive mindset can hinder spiritual growth.
6. The corporate world often rewards acquisitive individuals.

Origin and Etymology of Acquisitive

The adjective 'acquisitive' has its etymological origins in the Latin word 'acquisitivus,' which is derived from 'acquirere.' 'Acquirere' is a combination of 'ad,' meaning 'to,' and 'quaerere,' meaning 'to seek' or 'to obtain.' Therefore, 'acquisitive' originally meant 'pertaining to seeking to obtain' or 'related to the act of acquiring.' Over time, it came to describe individuals or tendencies that have a strong inclination or desire to acquire or possess things, often material possessions or wealth. Its etymology reflects the idea of actively seeking and desiring to accumulate, highlighting the inherent drive for acquisition in the term 'acquisitive.'

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective acquisitive:

greedy

altruistic

uninterested

generous

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More Usage Examples of Acquisitive

1. His acquisitive tendencies drove him to buy a new car.
2. Acquisitive people tend to prioritize material wealth.
3. The company's acquisitive strategy expanded its portfolio.
4. Her acquisitive nature extended to antique furniture.
5. Acquisitive desires can lead to financial difficulties.
6. The culture promoted an acquisitive approach to success.
7. He was criticized for his acquisitive approach to art.
8. The market is driven by acquisitive consumer behavior.
9. Balancing a frugal lifestyle with acquisitive tendencies is challenging.
10. The company has an acquisitive strategy, always looking for promising startups to buy.
11. The small town was not prepared for the acquisitive land developers who wanted to buy up local farms.
12. She became more acquisitive after starting her stamp collection, always seeking rare and unique stamps.
13. The acquisitive glint in her eyes when she saw the jewelry was impossible to miss.
14. The young prince’s acquisitive tendencies were curbed by the wise counsel of his advisors.
15. Investors are drawn to the tech industry due to its innovative and acquisitive characteristics.
16. The museum's acquisitive policy has helped it acquire some of the most invaluable art pieces from around the world.
17. Her acquisitive habits were apparent when she couldn't resist buying every book she saw.
18. It's important to balance an acquisitive mindset with ethical considerations when doing business.
19. The acquisitive squirrel gathered an impressive hoard of nuts for the winter.
20. During the merger wave, the acquisitive corporations redefined the business landscape by acquiring numerous smaller companies.