The words "earn" and "gain" are both verbs that describe getting something positive, but there's a key difference in what they usually refer to. We generally use "earn" to describe getting something as a reward for work or effort, while "gain" usually describes acquiring something that increases your possession or knowledge. Let's look at some examples to clarify.

Earn:

• "I earned a lot of money from my summer job." (This means the money was received as payment for work.)
• "She earned a scholarship through her hard work in school." (The scholarship is a reward for academic achievements.)
• "He earned a reputation for being honest and hardworking." (His reputation is a reward for his behavior.)

Gain:

• "I gained 10 pounds over the holidays." (This means there was an increase in weight.)
• "The company gained market share last quarter." (This means an increase in the company's portion of the market.)
• "She gained experience working in a multinational company." (This means an increase in her knowledge and skills.)
• "He gained confidence after mastering the new skill." (This means an increase in his confidence.)

Sometimes, the words can be used interchangeably, but generally speaking, "earn" emphasizes effort and reward, while "gain" often emphasizes an increase or improvement. Consider the nuance of the situation to choose the best word.

Happy learning!