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access
/ˈæk.ses/
ability to enter or use
Students need access to the library's digital resources.
Students must be able to enter and use the library's online materials.
neutral
the right or opportunity to use or benefit from something
The company provides free access to its software for all employees.
Employees can use the software without paying.
She gained access to the restricted area after showing her ID.
She was permitted to enter the area after verifying her identity.
Often used with 'to' (access to something).
Technology
technicalcomputing
to obtain or retrieve something, especially data or information
The system allows users to access their files from any device.
Users can retrieve their files using any device.
Hackers tried to access the database without authorization.
Hackers attempted to illegally retrieve data from the database.
Common in computing contexts (e.g., 'access a file', 'access a website').
neutral
a way or means of entering a place
The only access to the village is through a narrow mountain road.
The village can only be reached via a single road.
Often used with 'to' (access to a place).
Collocations
public accessavailability for everyone to useremote accessability to connect from a distancegain accessobtain permission to enter or use
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Distinguish verb vs. noun
As a verb, 'access' often implies active retrieval (e.g., 'access a file'). As a noun, it refers to the opportunity or right to enter/use something (e.g., 'have access to healthcare').
Gold Rule
Preposition usage
Use 'access to' for permission or opportunity (e.g., 'access to education'). Use 'access' without 'to' when referring to data or systems (e.g., 'access the database').
Word Origin
From Latin *accessus* ('approach, entrance'), from *accedere* ('to approach'), from *ad-* ('to') + *cedere* ('to go').
Usage Notes
As a verb, 'access' is often followed by 'to' when referring to data or systems (e.g., 'access to the server'). As a noun, it can refer to permission (e.g., 'access granted') or a physical route (e.g., 'a point of access').
Word Breakdown
ac-
prefix meaning 'to' or 'toward'
prefix-cess
root from Latin *cedere* ('to go')
rootEnglish Dictionary