qude: 取得 - To Obtain, Acquire, Achieve

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Summary: Learn the essential Chinese verb 取得 (qǔdé), meaning to obtain, acquire, or achieve. This HSK 4 term is crucial for expressing the successful attainment of something, usually through significant effort. This guide breaks down its meaning, cultural context, and practical usage, comparing it with similar words like 得到 (dédào) and 获得 (huòdé) through clear examples, helping you master how to talk about achievements and progress in Chinese.

Pinyin (with tone marks): qǔdé

Part of Speech: Verb

HSK Level: HSK 4

Concise Definition: To obtain, acquire, or achieve something, typically through effort or a formal process.

In a Nutshell: Think of 取得 (qǔdé) as “to achieve” or “to earn.” It's not for simply “getting” a cup of coffee. Instead, it's used for significant accomplishments that require work: earning a degree, gaining someone's trust, achieving success, or making progress on a major project. The word carries a feeling of formality and successful completion.

取 (qǔ): This character originally depicted a hand (又) taking an ear (耳), a practice from ancient warfare to count kills. Today, its core meaning has softened to simply “to take,” “to fetch,” or “to choose.” It implies an active, deliberate action of taking something.

得 (dé): This character shows a hand (寸) near a shell (贝), which was a form of ancient currency. Its meaning is “to get,” “to obtain,” or “to gain.”

The two characters combine to create a powerful meaning: 取 (to actively take) + 得 (to successfully get) = 取得 (to obtain through deliberate effort). The combination emphasizes a formal and successful acquisition.

In Chinese culture, great value is placed on education, credentials, and demonstrable success. 取得 (qǔdé) is the verb that perfectly captures the result of this hard work. It's the word you use for the fruits of your labor, whether it's an academic degree (`学位`), a professional qualification (`资格`), or a hard-won victory (`胜利`).

Comparison to Western Concepts: In English, the word “get” is extremely flexible. You can “get a Ph.D.” or “get a cold.” This is not the case in Chinese. 取得 (qǔdé) is much closer to the English concepts of “to earn,” “to attain,” or “to secure.” It highlights the process and effort involved. While an American might say, “I got the promotion,” which can sound a bit passive, a Chinese speaker using `我取得了晋升 (wǒ qǔdéle jìnshēng)` frames it as a clear achievement resulting from their hard work. This reflects a cultural emphasis on perseverance and tangible results as markers of personal and professional value.

取得 is a formal verb, most commonly found in written language, news reports, business settings, and academic contexts. It's less common in casual, everyday chat.

得到 (dédào) - A more general verb for “to get” or “to obtain,” often without the strong implication of effort required by `取得`.

获得 (huòdé) - A formal synonym, often used for receiving awards, honors, freedom, or support.

达到 (dádào) - To “reach” or “attain” a specific level, standard, or goal. Focuses on arriving at a destination point.

实现 (shíxiàn) - To “realize” or “bring to fruition.” Used for making dreams, goals, or plans a reality (`实现梦想`).

成功 (chénggōng) - Noun for “success,” which is often the object of the verb `取得`.

成绩 (chéngjì) - Noun for “results,” “grades,” or “achievements,” especially academic or performance-related ones. One can `取得好成绩`.

进展 (jìnzhǎn) - Noun for “progress.” A project can `取得进展`.

资格 (zīgé) - Noun for “qualification” or “certification,” a formal credential one can `取得`.

胜利 (shènglì) - Noun for “victory.” A team can `取得胜利`.