Procure
/prəˈkjʊər/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo obtain or get something, especially by care, effort, or the use of special means.
/prəˈkjʊər/
To obtain something, especially with care or effort.
The chef needed to procure fresh ingredients for the special dinner.
💡 Simply: Imagine you really, really want a specific toy. You might have to ask your parents, save your allowance, and search all over the internet to *procure* it. It means to get something, usually after some effort!
👶 For kids: To get something, like if you're trying to get a cookie!
More Examples
She was tasked with procuring the permits for the new building.
The art collector sought to procure rare paintings for his gallery.
How It's Used
"The company struggled to procure the necessary supplies due to the shortage."
"The lawyer was hired to procure evidence for the trial."
"After many setbacks, the organization finally procured funding for the project."
To persuade or cause someone to do something, especially something illegal or immoral.
/prəˈkjʊər/
To persuade or cause someone to do something, usually something bad or illegal.
He was charged with procuring illegal drugs.
💡 Simply: Sometimes, 'procure' means to convince someone to do something, but often it implies something sneaky or even illegal, like when someone tries to get others to commit bad acts.
👶 For kids: To try to get someone to do something they shouldn't, like getting your friend to break a rule.
More Examples
The corrupt official was accused of procuring bribes.
She attempted to procure a false alibi for her friend.
How It's Used
"The defendant was accused of procuring a minor for prostitution."
"The scheme aimed to procure the politician's support through bribery."
Synonyms
Acquire
Find
Gain
Get
Obtain
Arrange
Effect
Induce
Persuade
From Middle English procurer, from Old French procurer, from Latin prōcūrāre ('to take care of, manage, provide').
Used in legal and business contexts since the 14th century. Shakespeare employed the word to mean 'to get' or 'to obtain'.
Memory tip
Think of 'secure' – you're trying to secure or get something you need.