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within reach
/wɪˈðɪn riːtʃ/
close enough to touch or access
The fruit on the lowest branch was within reach.
The fruit was close enough to be easily picked.
general
Close enough to be touched, accessed, or obtained easily.
The bookshelf was within reach, so she grabbed a book without standing up.
The bookshelf was close enough that she could reach it while sitting.
His dream of becoming a doctor was finally within reach after years of hard work.
His goal of becoming a doctor was now achievable.
This phrase is often used both literally (physical proximity) and figuratively (achievability).
Collocations
within easy reachvery close and accessiblejust within reachbarely accessible but still possible to obtain
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Literal vs. Figurative Use
Remember that 'within reach' can describe physical proximity (e.g., an object) or abstract attainability (e.g., a goal).
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
While useful, overusing this phrase in formal writing can make your language repetitive. Vary your expressions.
Word Origin
Derived from the combination of 'within' (inside a boundary) and 'reach' (the act of extending one's hand or influence).
Usage Notes
This phrase is commonly used in both physical and abstract contexts, such as describing proximity to objects or the attainability of goals.
Word Breakdown
within
inside a boundary or limit
prepositionreach
the act of extending one's hand or influence
nounEnglish Dictionary