WordGarden.ioapproach
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /əprˈəʊtʃ/
US
- /əˈproʊtʃ/
Meanings
Noun
a way of dealing with a problem, task, or subject
movement toward a place or the way leading to it
Verb
to move nearer to someone or something
to speak to someone or contact them with a request, offer, or proposal
Beyond the definition
To approach something can mean physically getting nearer—like approaching a building or a person. It also describes the way you deal with a problem, task, or situation. A careful approach to baking might involve reading the recipe twice before starting, while an aggressive approach to negotiations means being firm and demanding.
Think of it like this: you can approach a locked door by trying to force it open (a direct approach), or you can approach it by looking for a key (a more thoughtful approach). Finally, the word can describe a physical path—the approach to the castle was long and winding, offering little cover.
You can also approach someone, meaning to go to them to speak or make a request: you might approach your manager about a new idea. And sometimes it simply means something is getting close in time: as winter approaches, the days grow shorter.
The word "approach" has a fascinating duality. At its most literal, it means to come closer to something physically—like approaching a city on the horizon or approaching someone for a conversation. "As we approached the coast, the salty air filled our lungs."
However, approach is often used in a more abstract sense, referring to a method, style, or way of dealing with a task, problem, or person. A scientist might take a methodical approach to research, carefully collecting and analyzing data. A teacher might use a patient approach when helping a struggling student. A diplomatic approach to conflict resolution emphasizes negotiation and compromise.
As a noun, "approach" refers to the manner in which something is done or dealt with—"Her cautious approach to new situations served her well." It can also describe the means of getting closer to something physically—"The winding mountain road offered a scenic approach to the summit." You might even talk about an approach to art, music, or literature.
As a verb, approach can also mean to go to someone to talk, ask, or make a proposal: "She approached the editor about publishing the article." And it can mean that a time or event is coming closer: "As the deadline approached, the office got quieter and more focused."
Consider these examples: "He approached the problem with creativity" (verb—method) or "The plane began its final approach to the runway" (noun—coming in close).
So whether it's a physical movement towards something or a thoughtful way of tackling a challenge, approach is about how you get to where you need to be—and how you handle things along the way.
Examples
- 1
Physical movement
As we approached the station, I could see the train on the platform.
- 2
Personal contact
A woman approached me after class and asked if I needed help.
- 3
Time limit
The deadline is approaching, so we need to make a decision soon.
- 4
Delicate subject
He wasn't sure how to approach the subject with his parents.
- Patternapproach a subject with someone
start talking about it carefully
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Loan request
Small businesses often approach the bank for a loan.
- Patternapproach someone for something
ask them for it
- 6
Teaching method
The school has taken a different approach to teaching reading.
- Patternan approach to something
a way of dealing with it
- 7
Problem solving
We need a more practical approach to this problem.
- 8
Public policy
I don't agree with the government's approach to climate policy.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- approach to the problem
- take an approach
- a practical approach
- a different approach
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- approachnounverb
Forms
- approachespluralnounverb
- approaching-ing formverbnoun
- approachedpast tenseverbnoun