access

/ˈæksɛs/
nounverbIntermediate
general

The ability or right to enter, obtain, or use something, such as a place, information, or a service.

The public has access to the park at all times.

The public can enter the park whenever they want.

💡

Often used with prepositions like 'to,' 'of,' or 'for.'

💻Technology
technical

In computing, the ability to read, write, or modify data or resources in a system.

The user needs admin access to install software.

Only users with administrative privileges can install software.

💡

Commonly used in cybersecurity and system administration.

⚖️Law
formal

In law, the right to enter or use property, often granted by contract or legal agreement.

The lease grants the tenant access to the apartment.

The rental agreement allows the tenant to use the apartment.

💡

May involve restrictions or conditions.

🏥Medicine
technical

In medicine, the ability to reach or treat a part of the body, often surgically.

The surgeon gained access to the heart through a minimally invasive procedure.

The doctor used a small incision to reach the heart.

💡

Often used in surgical contexts.

Collocations

access toThe ability to use or obtain something.gain accessTo obtain the ability to enter or use something.restricted accessLimited or controlled entry to a place or resource.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

access controlphrase
Systems or methods to regulate who can enter or use something.
access deniedphrase
A message indicating that permission to enter or use something is refused.

💡Pro Tip

Common Prepositions

Remember that 'access' is often followed by 'to' (e.g., 'access to the internet').

Gold Rule

Noun vs. Verb

'Access' can be a noun (e.g., 'He has access') or a verb (e.g., 'She accessed the file').

📖Word Origin

From Middle French 'accès,' from Latin 'accessus,' meaning 'approach.'

📝Usage Notes

Can be used as both a noun and a verb. As a verb, it means to obtain or reach something.

Word Breakdown

ac-
To, toward
prefix
+
-cess
To go
root
Noted on May 2, 2026ENEN