approach
noun (countable)
UK/əˈprəʊtʃ/US/əˈproʊtʃ/
A request or plea for something.
Example Sentences
She made an approach for additional funding to support the research project.
The charity received several approaches for donations after the disaster.
He prepared his approach carefully before meeting with the potential investor.
Their approach to negotiating the contract was firm yet fair.
The community made an approach to the local government for improved services.
An approach was made to seek assistance from international organizations.
They welcomed any approach that aimed to enhance environmental sustainability.
Her approach to the matter was both thoughtful and strategic.
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verb (transitive)
UK/əˈprəʊtʃ/US/əˈproʊtʃ/
To start to deal with a problem or situation in a particular way.
Example Sentences
They decided to approach the issue from a different angle to find a solution.
The team approached the project with enthusiasm and creativity.
She approached the challenge by breaking it down into smaller, manageable tasks.
He approached his studies with dedication, aiming for top grades.
The company approached the market expansion strategically to maximize profits.
They approached the negotiation with a willingness to compromise.
She approached the research topic with a thorough and methodical mindset.
He approached the repair job by first diagnosing the underlying problem.
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Synonyms
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How to Use
A manner or strategy for dealing with something or moving closer.“Approach” functions as both a noun and a verb. As a verb, it means to move closer to something (physically or conceptually) or to start addressing a problem. You might say, “We approached the issue by brainstorming,” or “I’m approaching the building from the east.” In its noun form, “an approach” refers to a way, technique, or plan for handling tasks or solving problems—e.g., “Her approach to project management balances flexibility with deadlines.” Whether planning a complex project or deciding how to talk to a friend about a sensitive subject, choosing the right approach clarifies intent and method. With this word, you emphasize the process or direction of addressing a challenge—like “a collaborative approach” in team settings or “a cautious approach” when dealing with uncertainties. In professional contexts, “approach” might appear in proposals or presentations, focusing on how you plan to achieve results or handle risks. In everyday life, using “approach” can signal thoughtful strategy or mindful steps toward a goal or location.
Alternatives
If you need synonyms or related expressions, “method,” “strategy,” or “tactic” can replace “approach,” particularly when focusing on a plan of action. “Way of dealing with” or “manner of addressing” can also highlight how you handle something. When describing literal movement, “move toward” or “come closer to” might fit better. Terms like “perspective” or “point of view” can capture the conceptual side: “Looking at it from a new perspective.” Depending on whether you want to stress procedure, viewpoint, or physical proximity, each choice adjusts the tone and specificity of your language.
Writing
In formal or academic writing, “approach” can introduce the framework you use. For instance, a research paper might say, “Our approach to data analysis involved qualitative and quantitative methods.” Clarify why you chose this approach and how it addresses your objectives or hypotheses. By pairing “approach” with rationale—like cost-effectiveness, timeliness, or alignment with industry standards—you show systematic thinking. In creative or narrative pieces, you might use “approach” to describe how a character handles conflict or a challenge: “His methodical approach ensured he left no clue unexamined.” This usage signals the style, personality, or careful mindset of the character. Even in persuasive writing, establishing “My approach rests on three main arguments” can make your structure transparent. Whether research-based, literary, or editorial, indicating an approach helps guide readers about the logic, tone, or steps you’ll follow.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, “approach” might come up when talking about practical solutions or directions. For instance, you could say, “What’s the best approach to fixing my car’s engine issue?” among friends who know a bit about mechanics. Or you might discuss “a relaxed approach” to planning a party or “a different approach” if a usual method isn’t working. When discussing interpersonal topics—like solving a disagreement—a casual usage might be, “We should approach her calmly and hear her side.” This indicates your plan to handle the situation diplomatically. “Approach” in daily chats often emphasizes that you’re thinking about not just what you’re doing, but how you’re doing it. It underscores steps or attitudes toward tasks, obstacles, or people, typically in a friendly, open-ended manner. If you’re talking about literally moving closer, “approach” can sound a bit more formal than “go over to.” Still, you might say, “I approached the front desk to ask for directions,” which keeps the tone neutral and straightforward. Overall, “approach” in casual settings signals awareness of strategy, method, or careful movement toward something or someone.
Etymology
“Approach” comes from Middle English “approchen,” drawn from Old French “aprochier,” meaning “to come nearer,” which in turn is traced back to Late Latin “appropiāre,” formed from “ad-” (“to”) plus “propiāre” (“draw near”). Historically, the word focused on physically getting closer, whether to a person, place, or object. Over time, its meaning broadened to include figurative closeness—such as adopting a mindset or solving a problem in a particular way. This evolution preserved the original notion of moving toward something, but expanded it to cover strategic or conceptual distance, too. Today, “approach” firmly encompasses both a method or tactic and the act of drawing nearer, reflecting centuries of linguistic adaptation.