* Verb: This is the most common use. It means to gain something through effort or experience.
* Example: "She acquired a new skill in pottery class."
* Past participle: Used as an adjective to describe something that has been gained or obtained.
* Example: "He has an acquired taste for spicy food."
* Past participle: Used as part of a verb phrase, often with the auxiliary verb "have."
* Example: "They have acquired a reputation for excellence."
Therefore, to determine the correct part of speech for "acquired," you need to look at its function in the sentence.