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 reach
Erreichen generally describes achieving a desired result. Erwirken is especially appropriate when this result is obtained through a formal application or official or legal action. In decisions of this kind, erwirken therefore highlights the formal process.
Durch einen formellen Antrag erwirkte sie die Genehmigung des Umbaus.
She obtained approval for the renovation through a formal application.
Nach mehreren Gesprächen erreichte sie die Genehmigung des Umbaus.
After several discussions, she secured approval for the renovation.
