To achieve or come into possession of something, often something abstract such as knowledge, freedom, fame, or a title, through effort or after a certain amount of time. The word is more elevated than 'bekommen' (to get) or 'erreichen' (to reach/achieve).
example
Nach jahrelanger Forschung gelang es ihr, weltweite Anerkennung zu erlangen.
After years of research, she succeeded in attaining worldwide recognition.
Usage tips
Inseparable verb
'Erlangen' (to attain) is an inseparable verb. The prefix 'er-' remains firmly attached to the verb in all sentence forms and is not placed at the end of the sentence. It often indicates that something is successfully achieved through an action.
EXAMPLE
Er hat durch seine Arbeit großen Reichtum erlangt.
He attained great wealth through his work.
Register: elevated language
This verb belongs to elevated language and is mainly used in formal or written contexts. In normal everyday conversation, one would more likely use 'bekommen' (to get) or 'erreichen' (to reach/achieve).
EXAMPLE
Durch das Studium erlangte sie tiefes Fachwissen.
Through her studies, she attained deep specialist knowledge.
Typical collocations
'Erlangen' (to attain) is almost always used with abstract goals or concepts. Typical combinations are 'Anerkennung erlangen' (to attain recognition), 'Freiheit erlangen' (to attain freedom), 'die Mehrheit erlangen' (to gain the majority), or 'einen Abschluss erlangen' (to obtain a degree).
EXAMPLE
Die Partei hofft, bei der nächsten Wahl die absolute Mehrheit zu erlangen.
The party hopes to gain an absolute majority in the next election.
Compare with
near_synonym
erlangen vs finden
to find
'finden' and 'erlangen' can both be used with abstract things when you eventually achieve or obtain something. 'finden' fits especially with things like a solution, peace, sleep, or a compromise. It often emphasizes that you are looking for something or that it finally becomes possible. 'erlangen' sounds more elevated and places more emphasis on the path toward it, often involving effort or a longer period of time. For example, you can 'erlangen' knowledge, freedom, a title, or recognition. In everyday language, 'finden' is much more natural; 'erlangen' is more suitable for more formal or serious texts.
erlangen
Durch viel Übung erlangt Mehmet mehr Sicherheit beim Sprechen.
Through a lot of practice, Mehmet gains more confidence when speaking.
finden
Nach dem Gespräch findet das Team endlich eine Lösung.
After the conversation, the team finally finds a solution.