learn (to gain knowledge or skill in a new subject or activity): I am learning a new language. I learned to swim when I was 6.
study (to spend time learning about a subject): I studied medicine at John Hopkins University.
acquire formal (to learn something, usually by your own effort): They have acquired a good knowledge of English. It will take years to acquire the necessary skills for the job.
memorize (to learn something so you remember it perfectly): You have to memorize this poem by tomorrow.
master (to learn something very well): It took him months to master the new technique.
pick up informal (to learn something by watching or listening to the others): I never joined a swimming club; I just picked it up. Children pick up languages very quickly.
get the hang of informal (to learn how to do something): I am trying to get the hang of ice-skating.
