Approach Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/əˈprauʃ/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A general way or manner of procedure; a plan of action or policy; a tactful or skillful piece of behavior.

Examples

• The company will follow the new approach to improve efficiency.
• She took an approach to the problem by breaking it down into smaller parts.

Synonyms

• Manner
• Method
• Tactic

Antonyms

• Withdrawal
• Rejection

Etymology

The word “approach” comes from the Old French “aproucher”, meaning “to draw near”, which is derived from the Latin “apropiare”, “to bring near”.

Usage Notes

In general, “approach” is used to refer to a way of doing something, while “method” is more specific and refers to a detailed plan of action. “Tactic” is often used in a military or strategic context.

Cultural References

In the movie “The Karate Kid”, the main character Daniel learns the “approach” of his mentor Mr. Miyagi.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“Take an approach to something” means to tackle a problem or situation from a particular perspective.

Related Words or Phrases

Method, Manner, Tactic, Strategy, Plan

Frequency of Use

Approach is a relatively common word in modern language, often used in professional and academic contexts.

Common Misspellings

Apperch, Appeoch, Apropich