to obtain
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to obtain
To achieve, through effort or formal steps, that something happens or is granted. The term is often used in legal or official contexts, for example to obtain a permit or a court order.
Der Anwalt konnte für seinen Mandanten eine mildere Strafe erwirken.
The lawyer was able to obtain a lighter sentence for his client.
'Erwirken' (to obtain) is an inseparable verb with the prefix 'er-'. This prefix often expresses that a result is successfully achieved through an action. The verb is related to 'wirken' (to have an effect).
Sie hat vor Gericht eine Entschädigung erwirkt.
She obtained compensation in court.
This word belongs to formal official and legal language. It is used when someone achieves something through official efforts with an authority or a court.
Die Bürgerinitiative konnte einen Baustopp erwirken.
The citizens' initiative was able to obtain a halt to construction.
You can only 'erwirken' (obtain) official or formal things. Typical objects are: 'eine Genehmigung erwirken' (to obtain a permit), 'einen Beschluss erwirken' (to obtain a resolution/order), 'ein Urteil erwirken' (to obtain a judgment), or 'eine einstweilige Verfügung erwirken' (to obtain an injunction).
Um hier bauen zu dürfen, müssen Sie eine Genehmigung erwirken.
In order to be allowed to build here, you must obtain a permit.
to receive / preserve / support
'erhalten' and 'erwirken' can both mean that someone ultimately gets something, for example permission or a decision. 'erhalten' only says that something reaches a person or is given to them. 'erwirken', on the other hand, emphasizes the path to getting it: you achieve something through effort, applications, or formal steps. The word is often used with authorities or in court. Learners may confuse the words because the result can be similar. If only the receiving is important, 'erhalten' fits. If active effort and an official process are important, 'erwirken' fits.
Der Anwalt konnte vor Gericht eine schnelle Entscheidung erwirken.
The lawyer was able to obtain a quick decision in court.
Nach zwei Wochen hat Maria die Genehmigung per Post erhalten.
After two weeks, Maria received the permit by mail.