Require (v) - to want

If you require something, you need it. If something is required, it is necessary.

'Training helps both beginners and experienced people alike to expand their skill sets and therefore perform better in their current position,' said Christine Pace, sales and marketing director, Hong Kong and China, for Adecco Personnel. For new salespeople the benefits were obvious, but seasoned professionals found that training offered them the opportunity 'to acquire selling techniques they haven't acquired yet or to be refreshed in these techniques', Ms Pace said.

China has finally emerged from its century of war and strife and is playing catch-up with developed countries at an amazing speed, while Japan is seeking to 'normalise' its position in the international community and acquire more political influence in line with its status as an economic superpower.

Editors at most major publishing houses no longer edit. Instead, they acquire titles and ensure marketability. In a globalised world, so-called global English reigns. It's a language that increasingly embraces the fewest keystrokes. Grammar may well be rendered meaningless, with more people speaking and writing English as a second language.

Seafood becomes dry and tough when it's overcooked. If the quality is good enough, the best way to highlight seafood's freshness is to serve it raw. It takes years of study and practice to learn to slice fish with the skill of a sushi chef, but there are many dishes that don't require such finesse.

There are three steps involved in developing any skills to a high level. First, you have to understand what you are trying to achieve. In selling professional services, this might require background reading, attending seminars or just asking questions - but this is only basic preparation. The vital second stage is practice. A golfer will spend hours at the driving range or on the putting green; someone in professional services must make contacts, meet clients, create proposals and deal with challenging situations. The final step is equally important and that is to get feedback.

A fund will be set up to offer financial assistance to small Cantonese opera troupes facing difficulties in staging performances at public theatres that require substantial cash up front. The Cantonese Opera Development Fund, which welcomes donations from private organisations, interested parties and individuals, will be monitored by the government.

Task:

Fill in the blanks with the correct word: acquire or require.

1. All public theatres ____________ event organisers to pay their fees four months in advance.

2. The new transportation enhancement project will ______________ changes to all road signs.

3. Reaching the top in any endeavour _____________ hard work and discipline.

4. According to the latest scientific research, musical skills are hard to __________ later in life.

5. The Hong Kong Heritage Museum plans to ___________ items from the 80-year-old Man Yuen noodle stall.

6. Many young people believe that those who _________ more skills and qualifications would have better prospects in the job market.

Answer: 1. require 2. require 3. requires 4. acquire 5. acquire 6. acquire