Approach: meaning, definitions and examples

👣

Add to dictionary

approach

[əˈprəʊtʃ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in a business context

A way of dealing with something or a way of doing something; a method or a strategy.

Synonyms

method, strategy, technique.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
approach	Use 'approach' when talking about a way of dealing with a situation or a problem, especially one that involves a mindset or attitude. He has a unique approach to solving conflicts Our approach to customer service sets us apart from competitors
method	Use 'method' when referring to an organized, systematic way of doing something, often with a scientific or technical implication. The scientific method is essential in conducting experiments Her method of teaching is very effective
strategy	Use 'strategy' when discussing a plan designed to achieve a long-term or overall goal, often used in business, military, or competitive contexts. Our marketing strategy needs to focus on social media The general explained the strategy for the upcoming battle
technique	Use 'technique' when describing a specific way to execute a task or activity, often implying skill or expertise. His painting technique is admired by many She learned a new technique to improve her cooking

Examples of usage

The company needs to come up with a new approach to marketing.
His approach to problem-solving is very analytical.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in a social context

To come near or nearer to something or someone in space, time, quality, or quantity.

Synonyms

advance, come near, get closer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
approach	Used when moving towards someone or something, especially in a deliberate or careful manner. Commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts. As I approached the house, I noticed the door was slightly open. She decided to approach the problem from a different angle.
come near	A casual expression used to indicate getting close to someone or something, often in a literal sense. It implies physical proximity. Don't let the dog come near that table; it might knock something over. He felt a sense of unease as he came near the old abandoned building.
get closer	Typically used when emphasizing the gradual process of reducing distance between two points or entities. It's often used in a relationship context or when focusing on the act of nearing completion. As we get closer to the deadline, the pressure increases. She's trying to get closer to her new colleagues by joining them for coffee.
advance	Often used in the context of moving forward in a planned or strategic way, frequently associated with progress or improvement. The troops continued to advance towards the front lines. His career began to advance rapidly after the promotion.

Examples of usage

She slowly approached the group of people standing by the door.
He decided to approach the issue from a different angle.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'appropiāre' meaning 'to come near.'
Old French influenced its development, where it appeared as 'aprochier'.
The term has been used in English since the late Middle Ages.

Psychology

In behavioral psychology, different approaches can affect how people respond to situations.
The concept of 'approach-avoidance' refers to situations that present both positive and negative aspects.
Using a positive approach can significantly reduce anxiety in social interactions.

Business

The term is commonly used to describe strategies for client engagement or problem-solving.
Approaching challenges with a growth mindset encourages innovation and resilience.
Different leadership styles represent varying approaches to team management and communication.

Education

Various teaching approaches enhance learning styles, such as project-based or inquiry-driven methods.
The approach a teacher takes can greatly impact student engagement and understanding.
Collaborative learning is an approach that encourages students to work together for better results.

Science

'Approach' can refer to the methods used in experiments, which can affect outcomes in research.
In environmental science, sustainable approaches aim to reduce human impact on ecosystems.
In physics, approaching a problem involves analyzing forces to predict motions.

Translations

Translations of the word "approach" in other languages:

🇵🇹 abordagem

🇮🇳 दृष्टिकोण

🇩🇪 Ansatz

🇮🇩 pendekatan

🇺🇦 підхід

🇵🇱 podejście

🇯🇵 アプローチ

🇫🇷 approche

🇪🇸 enfoque

🇹🇷 yaklaşım

🇰🇷 접근

🇸🇦 نهج

🇨🇿 přístup

🇸🇰 prístup

🇨🇳 方法

🇸🇮 pristop

🇮🇸 nálgun

🇰🇿 көзқарас

🇬🇪 მიდგომა

🇦🇿 yanaşma

🇲🇽 enfoque

Word Frequency Rank

At #563 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.

...
560 leave
561 hard
562 extent
563 approach
564 standard
565 likely
566 society
...