approach1 nounapproach2 verb
approachapproach1 /əˈprəʊtʃ $ əˈproʊtʃ/ ●●● S2 W1 AWL noun 
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- An official approach has been made but the hostages are unlikely to be released.
- Each of the delegates suggested a different approach to the problem.
- Hanson made an approach regarding a company buyout.
- Space scientists had to adopt a whole new approach to design and construction.
- The approach to the house was an old dirt road.
- The company needs to adopt a much more radical approach.
- The footballer said he'd received an approach from another team, and that he was considering the offer.
- the government's aggressive approach to the question of homelessness
- The main advantage of this approach is its simplicity.
- The plane was on its final approach to the Birmingham airport when it crashed.
- Today's approach to raising children is very different from 40 years ago.
- But he had questions about the situational approach as well.
- But his timid approach has left him vulnerable to attacks from all sides.
- But this approach was not merely avoided, it was deliberately shunned.
- I was too inexperienced and nervous to understand the obviousness of his approach.
- In this approach, the search for pathology and its roots are secondary.
- Range after range of mountains passed beneath as we bucked and swayed on the final approach.
- The third approach to merger policy is the cost-benefit approach.
- This rough-and-ready reasoning is upside-down to the slow, thorough, in-control approach most industrial designers bring to complex machinery.
THESAURUS
a way of doing something, especially one that is well known and often used: · You can choose whichever method of payment you prefer.· an environmentally friendly method for treating household waste
a set of actions that you use in order to do something. Way is more informal than method and is used more often in everyday English: · What’s the best way to remove wine stains?· a new way of treating the disease· There are lots of ways of cooking mushrooms.
something that you use to do something or achieve something: · Their main means of transport is their car.· E-mail is often the most convenient means of communication.· He looked around for a means of escape.· Education and training are the most efficient means of improving the nation’s economy.
a way of dealing with a particular problem or situation, especially a way that has been carefully thought about or planned: · Today’s approach to raising children is very different from 40 years ago.· I think we need to try a different approach.
a particular way of doing something, for which you need a skill that has to be learned and practised: · tips on how to improve your exam technique· More patients are surviving thanks to improved surgical techniques.
methods that you use in order to achieve what you want, especially in a game or competition: · There were complaints about police tactics used to clear demonstrators.· The team was discussing tactics for the game.
a set of carefully planned methods for achieving something that is difficult and may take a long time: · our sales strategy· a strategy to reduce the level of teenage smoking
formal a particular way of doing something: · For him, painting is just another mode of expression.· You can choose between several different modes of operation.· the most efficient mode of transportation· Withdrawing a child from class is still the preferred mode of providing extra help to that child.
a way of doing something something you can do in order to achieve what you want or deal with a problem: · Visiting a country is a great way to learn a language.· a good way to lose weight
a way of doing something, especially one that a lot of people know about and use: · They still use traditional methods of farming.· modern teaching methods· Different research methods are used to gather data.
a general way of dealing with a particular problem or situation, especially a way that has been carefully thought about: · We need a whole new approach to environmental issues.· There will be considerable advantages to adopting this approach.
a way of doing something for which you need a skill that must be learned and practised: · I went to a class to learn relaxation techniques.· new surgical techniques· techniques for improving staff performance
a carefully planned way to achieve something difficult or complicated that may take a long time: · They met to discuss the company’s business strategy.· the government’s long-term strategy for reducing crime
Longman Language Activatora statement, letter, message etc in which you ask for something a statement, letter etc in which you ask for something politely or formally: · My grandfather's last request was that there should be no flowers at his funeral.request for: · She refused all requests for an interview.request that: · My request that everyone remain seated was ignored.request to do something: · Davis's request to do research rather than teach this semester is being considered.at somebody's request (=because someone makes a request): · Cummings eventually resigned at the governor's request.on/upon request (=when it is requested): · Information about our testing procedure is available on request.make a request: · Ray made a formal written request to meet with Douglas.grant somebody's request formal (=say yes to it): · The board has granted your request for funding.
a strong request saying very clearly what you want, especially when you are asking for something that someone does not want to give you: · A list of the students' demands was presented to the dean of the law school.demand for: · The union's demand for an 8% across-the-board increase is still under consideration.demand that: · A demand from your boss that you babysit his children is clearly unreasonable.demand to do something: · The government has refused the rebels' demand to release their leader from prison.make a demand: · The kidnappers made several demands in their telephone call to police.
a request for something, especially money, that someone thinks they have a legal right to have: claim for: · The local people's claims for compensation from the chemical factory have so far been ignored.make a claim: · After the fire we made a claim to our insurance company.
a document signed by many people that is given to a government or other organization asking them to do something that until now they have been unwilling to do: · A petition signed by 1000 hospital doctors will be handed to the Minister of Health at lunchtime today.· Local groups have collected 17,000 votes on a petition to recall the mayor.
a letter or form that someone sends when they are asking for something such as a job, official document etc: · Since I left university I've sent off nearly fifty job applications.application for: · We're pleased to announce that your application for membership has been accepted.· The first two banks Williams visited denied her application for a loan.
an urgent request for something important such as freedom, money etc, especially in order to help someone in a bad situation: · Dozens of relief agencies have responded to the drought-stricken country's appeal.appeal for: · The war continues as a fresh UN appeal for a ceasefire has been rejected.
especially British an official request for someone that you do not know well to do something, especially when you are not sure if they will do it: approach from: · The footballer said he'd received an approach from another team, and that he was considering the offer.make an approach: · An official approach has been made but the hostages are unlikely to be released.
a strong emotional request for someone to help you or be kind to you: · Ignoring the man's pleas, the soldier shot him in the head.plea for: · A homeless mother of six made a tearful plea for a home for her family.
a particular way of dealing with something an action or several actions which could be taken in order to deal with a particular situation: · The best course of action would be to speak to her and tell her the whole story.· One possible course of action is to increase taxes on alcohol and tobacco.· Jim didn't want to start an argument, so agreeing seemed to be the safest course.
a particular way of dealing with a problem, difficult situation, or job: · The company needs to adopt a much more radical approach.approach to: · Each of the delegates suggested a different approach to the problem.· the government's aggressive approach to the question of homelessness
one of several ways that you could choose in order to deal with a problem or a difficult situation: · Working full-time may not be your best option.· What other options do I have?only option (=the only thing you can do): · Our only option now is to contact the police.no option (=no other way of dealing with something): · These people have no option but to take low-paid unattractive work.environmental/nuclear/political etc option: · As for replacement fuels, many people do not like to contemplate the nuclear option.
spoken the best way of dealing with something: · For getting around the city centre, a bicycle's your best bet.somebody's best bet is to do something: · We decided that our best bet was to leave him where he was and go and get help.
a way or method of doing something · Websites can be designed in many different ways.way to do something · Visiting a country is a great way to learn its language.· There's more than one way to build a house - all builders work differently.· I tried every way I could to make the child go to bed, but she refused.way of doing something · Is there any way of controlling the heating in here?the way (that) somebody does something · I'll show you the way we calculate the figures.the best/only way · What's the best way to remove wine stains?· The only way to lose weight is to eat less.the right/wrong way · The government does not believe that this approach is the right way to deal with the problem.the way to go about something · I think you're going about this in completely the wrong way.
a way of doing something, especially one that is well known and often used: · Printing methods have changed completely in the last twenty years.· In this school, staff are given complete freedom in their choice of language teaching methods.· Make a list of the different methods you could use in conducting a survey.method of: · You can choose whichever method of payment you prefer.method of/for doing something: · Medical science has not yet found a satisfactory method of treating cholera.· an environmentally-friendly method for treating household waste
a way of dealing with a particular problem or situation, especially a way that has been carefully thought about or planned: · The main advantage of this approach is its simplicity. approach to: · Today's approach to raising children is very different from 40 years ago.· Space scientists had to adopt a whole new approach to design and construction.
a particular way of doing something, for which you need a skill that has to be learned and practised: · More and more heart patients are surviving thanks to improved surgical techniques.· helpful tips on how to improve your exam techniquetechnique for doing something: · Chapter 6 describes useful techniques for creating on-screen filing systems that really work.
a set of carefully planned methods for achieving something that is difficult and may take a long time: · We will continue to update our sales strategy.strategy for (doing) something: · The government has no long-term strategy for reducing crime.strategy to do something: · a strategy to reduce the level of teenage smoking
a planned and effective way of doing something that you use every time you do it: · I do the cooking and Andrew does the shopping; it's an excellent system.system of doing something: · I work a lot more quickly now I've developed an efficient system of working.system for doing something: · Ryan thinks he's discovered a system for winning at roulette.
methods that you use in order to achieve what you want, especially in a game or competition: · Salesmen use all sorts of clever tactics to persuade people to buy from them.· The team was busy discussing tactics for the game.· He played with the confidence of a winning captain, instinctively changing tactics when necessary.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRYadjectives
alternative approaches to learning Have you any alternative suggestions? During the course, students will develop their analytical skills. a blinkered attitude to other cultures the government’s carrot and stick approach in getting young people to find jobs Perhaps you should adopt a more conciliatory approach. The death toll is thought to have reached double figures. Access to the Internet is fast becoming a necessity. The government needs a more flexible approach to education. Ryan will bring a fresh approach to the job. The government has a hands-off approach to the industry. He has a very hands-on approach to management. an innovative approach to language teaching The UN adopted a more interventionist approach in the region. He is famed for his laid-back attitude. What a novel idea! a step-by-step guide to making it in the music business a systematic approach to solving the problem a systematic way of organizing your work Her unorthodox views tend to attract controversy.COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADJECTIVE
· a new approach to pollution control
(=showing that you believe something can be done)· A positive approach is essential in beating pain.
(=thinking of new ideas and methods)· International business requires a more creative approach.
· Many governments have pursued this general approach to economic policy.
· We would do better to adopt a direct approach and tackle the problem at its source.
· Women often take a more practical approach.
(=dealing with problems in a way that is not limited by a strict set of principles)· a pragmatic approach to management problems
(=considering everything in a sensible way)· The president spoke in favour of a calm and balanced approach.
(=dealing with something in a severe way)· The council adopted a tough approach to fighting crime.
· China has followed a more cautious approach.
(=using different methods if necessary)· We have a flexible approach to our clients’ requirements.
· This is different from the traditional approach to high school teaching.
(=not the same as people usually use)· It’s an unorthodox approach that her doctor doesn’t recommend for everyone.
· a scientific approach to the study of language
verbs· In the US they have a somewhat different approach.
(=use an approach)· There were concerns that Beijing would take a tougher approach.
· This approach has been used for a number of major investigations.
· Some scientists have been trying an alternative approach.
· I prefer a traditional approach.
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES alternative approaches to learning Have you any alternative suggestions? During the course, students will develop their analytical skills. a blinkered attitude to other cultures the government’s carrot and stick approach in getting young people to find jobs· One of the most important trials in recent history is nearing its climax today.
· We need a common sense approach to caring for the environment.
· He promised a comprehensive approach to health care reform.
Perhaps you should adopt a more conciliatory approach.· Things began to get more frantic as the deadline loomed.
The death toll is thought to have reached double figures. Access to the Internet is fast becoming a necessity. The government needs a more flexible approach to education. Ryan will bring a fresh approach to the job. The government has a hands-off approach to the industry. He has a very hands-on approach to management. an innovative approach to language teaching The UN adopted a more interventionist approach in the region. He is famed for his laid-back attitude. (=be almost middle-aged)· a stocky, balding man who was approaching middle age
What a novel idea!· This is just the positive approach that the school needs.
· We must adopt a rational approach when dealing with this problem.
· People approaching retirement need to consider the issue of money.
a step-by-step guide to making it in the music business (=one that is coming closer)· The horizon was dark with an approaching storm.
a systematic approach to solving the problem a systematic way of organizing your work Her unorthodox views tend to attract controversy.· An alternative approach to real-time monitoring is to develop software capable of receiving data from external monitoring systems.· One alternative approach is to develop an additional base of power that your opponent does not possess.· There are, however, alternative approaches.· In 1968 the neighborhood development program was initiated by Congress, providing an alternative approach to large-scale urban renewal.· In contrast, an alternative approach is to invest soas to increase production.· But there are alternative approaches and these are gaining popularity.· An alternative approach is programme budgeting.· In view of the current state of the art I can do no more here than suggest that alternative approaches are surely possible.
· He suggested that there are two different approaches based upon the basic perceptions that the manager had of the workforce.· A summary of different approaches to jurisprudence and judicial decision making among developed countries.· Asking Disabled people produces a quite different approach.· In this era of specialized travel, arguably the most entertaining new publications take a different approach.· Within this ambiguity and unclarity, Shallis sees room for an entirely different approach to the whole question of time.· This vacillation between different approaches showed in other ways.· Because of the wide range of problems that the public sector faces there will be different approaches to planning in different situations.· The attorneys general in Florida and Massachusetts are taking a different approach.
· The results were then analyzed to see where this approach was causing problems and whether a more flexible approach was needed.· In particular it requires a more flexible approach to taxation, and the operation of the social services.· The centre used to recommend a strict vegetarian diet but now uses a more flexible approach.· It was only after a long battle that the government began to consider adopting a more flexible approach.· There are already early signs that this media flexible approach to our markets is creating opportunities to grow new revenue streams:?· Allied to this is the tendency to work closely with those schools which share this unstructured and flexible approach to referrals.· But his alternative, more flexible approach had proved fallible also.· Because ENPs deal with patients from start to finish they can be much more flexible in their approach.
· The changing economic, political and technological environment presents management with a new set of issues, requiring fresh approaches.· Because it was done with respect for the music, and with a fresh approach that brought it life all over again.· These call for fresh thinking and approach, and a willingness to change function.· For a fresh approach to salad, serve Jicama-Watercress Salad.· Some fresh approach to understanding the management problems in secondary schools could be much needed after the upheavals of 1985/86.· Each venue inspires a fresh approach.· Innovative new curricula in science, mathematics and the humanities combined with fresh approaches to classroom method.· Writers were poorly paid, rarely given a screen credit and never encouraged to take a fresh approach.
· Ceramics Two general approaches have been much used: thin-section petrography and chemical analysis of the body fabric or composition.· However, the general approach is not so conditioned.· We have now used the general approach in refs 2 and 3 to place yttrium carbine into nanotubes.· Allen's comment is typical of the general approach to the role of the state and two aspects are interesting.· The Second and final report, submitted in April 1921, maintained this general line of approach.· These results are, of course, implicitly contained in the general approach to colinear solutions described in Section 10.1.· That some of his hypotheses are biologically dubious does not destroy the interest of his general approach.
· A couple of early speeches suggested that he might marry innovative approaches with a commitment to U.S. leadership.· In Chapter Seven, we will discuss the innovative approach he and his colleagues followed.· To succeed in such an environment requires an innovative approach to business.· Grammar Dictation offers an innovative approach to the study of grammar in the language classroom.· Providing insurance for their artists is a significant part of this innovative and holistic approach.· Both Johansson and Reddy reached their conclusions by using a simple, yet innovative approach.· The innovative approach cost only a small amount more, with no increase in price to the customer.
· We have introduced Project 2000 - a new approach to the training of nurses.· Younger people want your ideas about new approaches, your involvement, your suggestions.· Naturally, a new approach road to the Civic Centre was required.· A new approach to the whole task is called for.· Acknowledging the confusion, the Supreme Court in 1990 disavowed its earlier opinions and announced a new approach.· A new approach was being mooted in the heaving undergrowth of ultra-left literature.· Training programs are turning hightech, and venture capitalists are staking millions on the new approach.
· That is a memorably neat summary of a Positive science approach.· Colangelo and his staff are taking the positive approach as far as season tickets are concerned.· Through the provision of information and practical training opportunities it encourages a positive and practical approach to environmental issues.· Gavin Hastings's side were very positive in their approach to the Five Nations Championship.· It's just the positive approach that the pupils and school need.· It is a positive approach and unlikely to result in the speaker talking in an unnatural way.· Parents can learn to anticipate difficulties and develop avoidance strategies as part of a positive parenting approach.· The new President signals the advent of a new generation with a new and more positive approach.
· Using a similar approach I categorised my own activities as illustrated in Table 1.· Fairfield has since taken a similar approach to its other development projects.· They also have a similar technical approach in the use of superimposed images which encompass more than one viewpoint and stimulate ideas.· Before this week, there had been great concern that Dole would take a similar approach.· A similar approach has been applied to marine records of explosive eruptions in the Bay of Naples.· We have a very similar approach.· There has been discussion with the Commission on the issue and it seems to adopt a similar approach.
· The traditional approach to the training and selection of headteachers has been on the basis of technical competence reinforced by practical experience.· Obtaining equity financing, by contrast, could be accomplished through more traditional managerial approaches.· Discussion of less traditional approaches and concerns continues with reference to social work and citizens' charters, citizenship and participation.· All the best traditional managerial approaches are principle based.· The inclusion of discussion is also interesting and contrasts with traditional approaches which demanded silence in arithmetic lessons.· So that approach has become but one more overlay to the traditional centralist approach.· Politicians tend to support the traditional approach to budgeting.
VERB· However, to maintain the balance and the style of the account of earlier periods, we can adopt a similar approach.· The alternative for Clinton is to adopt a slower approach supported by the Pentagon and many in the White House.· The Read codes adopt a particular approach to the representation of medical concepts.· Therefore, one must adopt a systematic approach to acid-base diagnosis, as emphasized earlier in this chapter.· Brennan has adopted a completely different approach.· But Seabourn, whose luxury vessels are among the most honored in the industry, has adopted an even bolder approach.· Other cases have adopted the same approach.· There are at least two highly practical reasons for adopting this approach.
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRYPHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES
1method [countable] a method of doing something or dealing with a problemapproach to- The pillwort plant usually dies with the approach of winter.
- During 1939 the approach of war seemed inexorable.
- I regret the approach of the Minister of State, Home Office.
- Looks at patterns of development, the approach of house builders to derelict land, and brownfield risk analysis.
- That depends very much on the approach of some individuals.
- The air was growing cooler with the approach of evening.
- This corresponds broadly with the approach of the previous chapter, and owes much to the Weberian analysis of bureaucracy.
- This is the approach of the neurophysiologist.
- This is very obviously the approach of some one writing exclusively and specifically for the young.
- Can a school board adopt a policy prohibiting dancing at school?
- He also agreed to adopt policies on affirmative action and ethics.
- It is essential that these countries, too, adopt policies that will help to protect the Ozone Layer.
- It is very hard convincing powers like the World Bank to adopt policies that truly help the poorest.
- No-Layoff Policies Perhaps the best way to secure union cooperation is to adopt a policy of no layoffs.
- Their purpose is to influence government to adopt policies favourable to them.
- This structure can neither impose law upon its members nor force one of them to adopt a policy with which it disagrees.
- Ultimately, planners adopted a policy of non-violence.
- Any careful cost-benefit analysis will show that every social practice and institution has limitations and presents difficulties as well as opportunities.
- Does this enable the court to take into account the comparative social utility of the product and apply a cost-benefit analysis?
- Easing actions were subject to an instant cost-benefit analysis.
- Economists have long been calling for safety regulations to be subject to cost-benefit analysis.
- Environmental intangibles have been built into the cost-benefit analysis in the same way as they are for road schemes.
- Few laws require cost-benefit analysis for new rules and many actively prohibit it.
- The port should have the results of a cost-benefit analysis within 120 days, Bowman said.
- The third approach to merger policy is the cost-benefit approach.
- After the Williams Report, it was very hard to argue convincingly for a laissez-faire approach to screen entertainment.
- In the light of this we briefly consider rules and laissez-faire approaches to mergers as alternatives to that of pragmatic cost-benefit.
- Market-orientated, almost laissez-faire attitudes figured ever more prominently in the Conservative Party when in opposition in the 1970s.
- Proponents of this laissez-faire approach have however themselves been challenged.
- The least they did was to adopt a laissez-faire attitude or one of deliberate non-interference so that the women felt free of pressure.
- Thus we might expect to move gradually to a more participative or laissez-faire approach.
- We don't take any bomb threat lightly.
- But Quality intends to take the softly-softly approach here.
- The uncertainty of such stop-go policies arguably reduced business confidence and discouraged investment.
a new approach to teaching languages He decided to adopt a different approach and teach the Bible through story-telling. This book takes an unorthodox approach to art criticism. organizations which take a positive approach to creative thinking► see thesaurus at method, way2ask [countable] a request from someone, asking you to do something for them: They made a direct approach to the minister of education.3the approach of something the approach of a particular time or event is the fact that it is getting closer: the approach of autumn It’s a sign of the approach of middle age.4movement towards [uncountable] movement towards or near to something: Our approach frightened the birds.5path/road [countable] a road, path etc that leads to a place, and is the main way of reaching it: Soldiers were guarding the approaches to the city. an approach road6aircraft [countable] the final part of a plane’s flight, before it lands at an airport: It was clear to land so we made our approach.COLLOCATIONSadjectivesa new/different/fresh/alternative approach· a new approach to pollution controla positive approach (=showing that you believe something can be done)· A positive approach is essential in beating pain.a creative approach (=thinking of new ideas and methods)· International business requires a more creative approach.a general/broad approach· Many governments have pursued this general approach to economic policy.a direct approach· We would do better to adopt a direct approach and tackle the problem at its source.a practical approach· Women often take a more practical approach.a pragmatic approach (=dealing with problems in a way that is not limited by a strict set of principles)· a pragmatic approach to management problemsa balanced approach (=considering everything in a sensible way)· The president spoke in favour of a calm and balanced approach.a tough approach (=dealing with something in a severe way)· The council adopted a tough approach to fighting crime.a cautious approach· China has followed a more cautious approach.a flexible approach (=using different methods if necessary)· We have a flexible approach to our clients’ requirements.a traditional/conservative approach· This is different from the traditional approach to high school teaching.an unorthodox approach (=not the same as people usually use)· It’s an unorthodox approach that her doctor doesn’t recommend for everyone.a scientific/systematic approach· a scientific approach to the study of languageverbshave an approach· In the US they have a somewhat different approach.take/adopt an approach (=use an approach)· There were concerns that Beijing would take a tougher approach.use an approach· This approach has been used for a number of major investigations.try an approach· Some scientists have been trying an alternative approach.prefer/favour an approach· I prefer a traditional approach.approach1 nounapproach2 verb
approachap‧proach2 ●●● S3 W2 AWL verb WORD ORIGINapproach1
Origin:
1300-1400 Old French aprochier, from Late Latin appropiare, from Latin ad- ‘to’ + prope ‘near’VERB TABLE
approach
| Simple Form | ||
| Present | I, you, we, they | approach |
| he, she, it | approaches | |
| Past | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | approached |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have approached |
| he, she, it | has approached | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had approached |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will approach |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have approached |
| Continuous Form | ||
| Present | I | am approaching |
| he, she, it | is approaching | |
| you, we, they | are approaching | |
| Past | I, he, she, it | was approaching |
| you, we, they | were approaching | |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have been approaching |
| he, she, it | has been approaching | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had been approaching |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will be approaching |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have been approaching |
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- A tourist approached us and asked us the way to the theatre.
- As they approached the wood, a deer ran out of the trees.
- Everyone prepared celebrations as the year 2000 approached.
- I don't think refusing to negotiate is the right way to approach this problem.
- I have been approached regarding the possibility of selling the building to a startup company.
- Nash has already been approached by several pro football teams.
- Researchers are looking for new ways to approach the problem.
- Several people approached Fleming as he left the hall.
- She was approached by a waiter.
- Temperatures could approach 100° today.
- The company confirmed that it had been approached about a merger.
- The train slowed down as it started to approach the station.
- They had approached Barlow to see if he would participate in the charity event.
- Three people approached me, asking for money.
- Try to relax before the exam, and you'll approach it in a better frame of mind.
- Warren was in his late fifties and approaching retirement.
- We could hear footsteps approaching down the corridor.
- We walked silently, so they would not hear us approach.
- When I approached, the deer immediately ran away.
- Will you be approaching the bank for a loan?
- An hour later, taxiing across the glimmering surface of the lake, the floatplane approached the jetty.
- As she climbed out and approached, the door was opened from within.
- Fellow workers approach with any problems they might have and managers as well throughout the North.
- Most of us think the teachers are easier to approach in junior high school.
- This man was exceedingly presentable, a bit too perfect a specimen for me to approach, I felt.
- Toward evening, the weather turned and, as they approached the dock, the sky was gray and misty.
THESAURUS
verb [intransitive, transitive] to exchange information or have a conversation with someone, by telephone, letter etc, or by seeing them: · Now that we live in different cities, we communicate by e-mail.· He is able to communicate using a special keyboard, which is connected to a computer.· This message is not being communicated to staff.
verb [transitive] to write to, phone, or email someone especially for the first time, in order to give or ask for information: · Neighbours contacted police after seeing a man with a gun.· She refused to comment when contacted by reporters from the local newspaper.
to write to, telephone, or email someone, especially someone who you do not see very often: · I really ought to get in touch with Paula. It's been months since we last spoke.· You've got my phone number if you need to get in touch.
to succeed in contacting someone by telephone after trying several times: · Where have you been? I've been trying to get hold of you all week.· It's no use trying to phone Linda at work – she's impossible to get hold of.
verb [transitive] to contact someone that you do not know or have not contacted before, in order to offer them something or ask them for something: · He has already been approached by several professional football teams.· The company confirmed that it had been approached about a merger.
Longman Language Activatoralmost a number, time, or amount use this to say that something is a little less than a number or amount, or a little before a particular time. Almost and nearly have the same meaning, but almost is much more common than nearly in American English. In British English both words are common: · I've been a teacher for nearly 10 years now.· We had money and almost $1000 in traveler's checks.· John is three years old and Sally is almost six.very nearly: · It's very nearly time to go home.
use this when you want to emphasize that something is a little less than a number or amount, or a little before a particular time: · "Is he 60?" "Not quite!"· It's not quite time to go yet.
also close on British almost a particular number, amount, especially a surprisingly large one, or almost a particular time, especially a very late time: · The government spends close to $100 billion a year on education.· There must be close to a hundred people in the hall.· We drove close on 500 miles Saturday.· It was close on midnight by the time they got home.
almost a particular number, amount, time etc, and still increasing or getting nearer to that number, amount, time etc: · In the North East, the unemployment rate is now nearing 20 percent.be fast approaching (=very nearly a particular time): · By now the winter was fast approaching, and further travel would soon be inadvisable.
British informal to be almost a particular time, age, or period of time: it's getting on for something: · It's getting on for 10 years since we last saw each other.· It must be getting on for lunch time. I'm starving.somebody is getting on for 40, 50 etc (=use this when guessing an older person's age): · "How old's Diane?" "She must be getting on for 50."
informal to be almost forty, fifty etc - use this when you are guessing an older person's age : · Burt's probably pushing 50 by now.
to ask for something officially to write to someone asking for something such as a job, an opportunity to study at a university, or permission to do something: · "I still haven't received my passport." "When did you apply?"apply for: · How many jobs had you applied for before you were offered this one?apply to do something: · Finland did not apply to join the EC until 1992.
especially British to ask for something, especially money, from a government, company etc, because you believe you have a legal right to have it: · Thousands of people who should get welfare payments never even bother to claim them.claim something from somebody: · The two companies are claiming $500 million each in damages from the government.claim damages/compensation: · Because the accident had not been her fault, Barbara was able to claim damages.
formal to officially ask someone for something or ask someone to do something: · The pilot requested permission to land the plane at O'Hare airport.· Officials in Seoul are requesting the drug dealer's extradition from Bahrain.request that: · We request that all cell phones and pagers be turned off for the duration of the performance.be requested to do something: · Anna was requested to make the necessary arrangements for the convention.
to officially ask someone that you do not know well for something or ask them to do something, especially when you are not sure if they will do it: · Will you be approaching the bank for a loan?· They had approached Barlow to see if he would participate in the charity event.· I have been approached regarding the possibility of selling the building to a startup company.
to ask someone for something such as a job, government money etc that is available, by officially writing to them to say that you want it: · I've put in for a transfer to one of our overseas branches.· All those who lost their jobs put in for compensation.· Students must put in for grants at least six months before their course begins.
someone who officially asks for something such as a job, official document etc by writing or answering the questions on a form: · Ten women were selected from over 30 applicants.applicant for: · Applicants for teacher-training courses need to have at least one year's experience.job/grant etc applicant: · Many job applicants do not know how to write an appealing cover letter.
someone who asks for something, especially money, from the government, a court etc, because they believe they have a legal right to it: · The company will settle the lawsuit and provide compensation for claimants.· Garcia is representing three Spanish-speaking claimants in their case against the state.
to write to, talk to, telephone etc someone to write to, telephone, email etc someone, especially someone you do not see very often: · I really ought to get in touch with Paula. It's been months since we last spoke.· I've been trying to get in touch with my sister for several days.· You can get in touch with me at home, or at the office if necessary.
to write to, phone, email etc someone especially for the first time, in order to give or ask for information: · I was given the names of three government officials to contact.· After they received the bomb threat, school officials immediately contacted the police.
British spoken to phone, write to, email etc someone in order to complain, explain, or ask for something: · I'm afraid I can't help you. You'd better get onto the foreign office.· I'll get onto Eddy and see if I can find out what's going on.
to succeed in contacting someone, especially when this is difficult: · The pilot finally managed to make contact with the control tower.· I've managed to make contact with most of the people on the list.
to contact someone that you do not know or have not contacted before, in order to offer them something or ask them for something: · Nash has already been approached by several pro football teams.approach somebody about something: · The company confirmed that it had been approached about a merger.
to deal with a difficult situation in a particular way to deal with something or someone in a particular way and with a particular attitude: · The school are treating this matter very seriously.treat something/somebody lightly (=not seriously or severely): · No one would suggest that sex offenders should be treated lightly.treat something as something: · The company treats training as a continuous part of career development.· Police say that her death is being treated as suspicious.
to deal with a situation by behaving in the way you think will be best in order to achieve the result that you want: · Have you decided how you want to play it?play it well/carefully/steady etc: · You can get exactly what you want if you play it carefully.play (it) safe (=not take any risks): · In the run-up to the election, politicians in both parties just wanted to play it safe.play (it) straight (=do something or deal with someone in a direct honest way): · Some of the people involved in the competition, were not playing it straight.· "Play straight with me or I'll kill you," he hissed.play it cool (=behave as though you do not care about something or someone): · She would not show him how upset she was. It was always smarter to play it cool.play it by ear (=decide what to do as the situation develops): · "What'll you do if he asks you?" "I'm not sure, I'll play it by ear."
to begin to deal with a difficult situation in a particular way or with a particular attitude: · I don't think refusing to negotiate is the right way to approach this problem.· Try to relax before the exam, and you'll approach it in a better frame of mind.
to get nearer to someone or something to go or come nearer to a person, place, or thing: · As Kay got near the house she began to feel nervous.get near/close to: · We had been traveling for two hours and I knew that we must be getting close to Vancouver.get near/close enough to do something: · I couldn't get close enough to see what was happening.get nearer/closer (to something): · People were running for shelter. The hurricane was getting closer and closer.· Every day the Russian tanks were getting nearer to Berlin.
to move gradually closer to a person, place, or thing. Approach is more formal than get near and get close .: · The train slowed down as it started to approach the station.· We could hear footsteps approaching down the corridor.
if a group of people close in on someone or something, they gradually move closer to them from all sides so that they surround them in a threatening way: · Well-organized bands of rebels began to close in on the capital.· The divers were surrounded by three sharks which were rapidly closing in on them.· TV crews closed in on Geldof as soon as he stepped out of his car.
to gradually get nearer to a place - used especially in stories or descriptions of events: · As she neared her home she could see a light in the window.
written to move closer to something or someone: · The two men were talking, but as we drew near they turned and stared at us.· Madge drew a little nearer so that she could hear what he was saying.draw near to: · The rebels hoped that many of the government troops would join them when they drew near to the city.
to go or come towards someone or something also go toward American to go away from where you are towards a particular place: · Go towards the church and take the first turning on your left.· He watched her going toward West End Avenue.
also come toward American to come to where you are from a particular direction: · He looked up to see two policemen coming towards him.· As we came toward the house, the door flew open and out came Polly.
also head toward American to move in the direction of something or someone, especially directly or in a determined way: · The bus was heading towards the Friedrich-Strasse railway station.· They saw the patrol boat turn and head towards them.
to move quickly towards somewhere, especially so that you can do something when you get there: · As he made for the door he tripped and fell heavily.· We headed for the nearest island to try and repair our boat.
to walk directly to a place or person as quickly as possible, especially because there is something you want there or someone you want to talk to: · I made a beeline for the bar and ordered myself a double whisky.· Jeff made a beeline for a table where two pretty Russian girls were sitting.
written to move towards someone or something, especially in order to attack them: · In May 1681 a force of about 2500 troops advanced on Mondovi.· He moved towards her as though he was advancing on a dangerous animal.
written to come towards a particular person or place: · As they approached the wood, a deer ran out of the trees.· We walked silently, so they would not hear us approach.
to go towards someone because you want to speak to them to walk towards someone and stop next to them, especially because you want to say something: · An old guy come up to me in the street and asked for a dime for coffee.· Total strangers used to come up to me and tell me how much they'd enjoyed the show.
to walk towards someone you do not know, especially so that you can ask them something: · A tourist approached us and asked us the way to the theatre.· Several people approached Fleming as he left the hall.· She was approached by a waiter.
to move quietly towards someone, trying not to be noticed, so that they do not realize you are there until you are next to them: · I was sitting in the back row, when Harry sidled up and sat down next to me.sidle up to: · He sidled up to me without a word and slipped a note in my pocket.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY The time is fast approaching when we will have to make a decision. It might be possible to approach the problem in a different way.COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES alternative approaches to learning Have you any alternative suggestions? During the course, students will develop their analytical skills. a blinkered attitude to other cultures the government’s carrot and stick approach in getting young people to find jobs Perhaps you should adopt a more conciliatory approach. The death toll is thought to have reached double figures. Access to the Internet is fast becoming a necessity. The government needs a more flexible approach to education. Ryan will bring a fresh approach to the job. The government has a hands-off approach to the industry. He has a very hands-on approach to management. an innovative approach to language teaching The UN adopted a more interventionist approach in the region. He is famed for his laid-back attitude. What a novel idea! a step-by-step guide to making it in the music business a systematic approach to solving the problem a systematic way of organizing your work Her unorthodox views tend to attract controversy.COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADVERB
The time is fast approaching when we will have to make a decision. It might be possible to approach the problem in a different way. alternative approaches to learning Have you any alternative suggestions? During the course, students will develop their analytical skills. a blinkered attitude to other cultures the government’s carrot and stick approach in getting young people to find jobs· One of the most important trials in recent history is nearing its climax today.
· We need a common sense approach to caring for the environment.
· He promised a comprehensive approach to health care reform.
Perhaps you should adopt a more conciliatory approach.· Things began to get more frantic as the deadline loomed.
The death toll is thought to have reached double figures. Access to the Internet is fast becoming a necessity. The government needs a more flexible approach to education. Ryan will bring a fresh approach to the job. The government has a hands-off approach to the industry. He has a very hands-on approach to management. an innovative approach to language teaching The UN adopted a more interventionist approach in the region. He is famed for his laid-back attitude. (=be almost middle-aged)· a stocky, balding man who was approaching middle age
What a novel idea!· This is just the positive approach that the school needs.
· We must adopt a rational approach when dealing with this problem.
· People approaching retirement need to consider the issue of money.
a step-by-step guide to making it in the music business (=one that is coming closer)· The horizon was dark with an approaching storm.
a systematic approach to solving the problem a systematic way of organizing your work Her unorthodox views tend to attract controversy.· That deadline is fast approaching, and from the end of December Jubilee 2000 will be no more.· It's hard to believe, but we're fast approaching the dessert hour.· The woman, classy, well-presented, thirty-five, is approaching fast-he can't finish the sentence.· They made love as though tomorrow was fast approaching, and with it imminent departure.· She was, of course, keenly interested in cinema, and her White House film festival was fast approaching.· That said, the 1995 World Cup is fast approaching.· By now the sky has begun to darken overhead, and night is fast approaching.
NOUN· A standard computer would proceed one step at a time, while we approach the issue from many different angles at once.· They are playing appropriately coy, but there are some changes in the way each man approaches the issue.· Finally, as the revolution approached, the issue assumed much wider significance.· People approach this whole issue in terms of the ugliness they are confronted with day in and day out in their surroundings.· Management critique A fact and figure analyser, who approaches issues in a theoretical and intellectual way.· The platform also takes hardline approaches to the issues of immigration and crime.· It is from this perspective that she approaches the women's issue.· We can approach these issues by re-examining the argument that doping is a form of cheating.
· The Labour party approaches all economic matters on the basis of the new wonderful world of cost-free pay.· It is also an ideal opportunity to meet with members of other district societies to learn how they approach matters.· I approach the matter as follows.· They did not even approach the matter.· He approached such matters slowly, obliquely, over wine and sweetmeats.· The way that so far we have approached the matter has been highly theoretical.· We must shake off the image that marketing a service is somehow analogous to marketing goods and approach the matter more vigorously.· There is a tendency for people to approach this matter as though it were one entirely for the shipyard concerned.
· Fellow workers approach with any problems they might have and managers as well throughout the North.· It calls for turning around and approaching the problem from a completely different angle.· But how else were you to approach the massive problem of ferreting out some meaning from an inscrutable universe?· Of course different cultures and nations approached the problem differently.· Here, we have approached this problem by using an efficient in vitro method for generating mutations at defined regions.· In addition to these well-known self-help groups, two other self-help approaches to drinking problems should be noted.· Historians have varied in their interpretations of how the Labour Party approached these problems and the effectiveness of its responses.· We must approach the problem from a different standpoint.
· We hope this will be of value to both feminists and philosophers approaching these questions for the first time.· With that knowledge researchers could approach even bigger questions, like the origin of these anti-continents.· Hands in pockets, Lennon sauntered through the plaza, pausing only to disable any artificial lifeforms that approached him asking questions.· The most radical feminists have approached the question from the opposite direction.· The House of Lords approached the question in a commonsense manner and held the actions of both workmen were causes.· This is the perspective from which we should approach the novel constitutional questions presented by the legislative veto.· Even within the world of mass-produced culture, it is possible to approach the question of standardization differently.· The project approaches this question by examining the financial system in a country which has done well economically.
· The problem was how to approach the subject.· Some instructors approach their subject like professors.· The reader must judge from this account, written by some one who approached his subject with no preconceived ideas either way.· Many guidebooks approach the subject regionally.· The particular sonnet I am about to examine, however, approaches the subject from a much different perspective.· The interaction did not approach significance by either subjects or materials.· A man who approached the subject with some finesse.
· He approached his task, as Austen Chamberlain noted, with a new firmness and confidence.· With their job security for the moment assured, employees began to approach their tasks with greater enthusiasm and concentration.· They may approach the task with very little precise notion of what they wish to achieve.· However, the two areas approach the task of remaking intelligence from different directions.· How do ministers and clergy approach the difficult task of coping with bereavement and funerals?· The two announced candidates would approach their giant-killing task in different ways.· At this stage, then, the general position has been stated as to how research workers should approach their task.· This traditional classification nevertheless remains a convenient way of approaching the task of describing the United Kingdom constitution.
PHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES
1move towards [intransitive, transitive] to move towards or nearer to someone or something: - Can a school board adopt a policy prohibiting dancing at school?
- He also agreed to adopt policies on affirmative action and ethics.
- It is essential that these countries, too, adopt policies that will help to protect the Ozone Layer.
- It is very hard convincing powers like the World Bank to adopt policies that truly help the poorest.
- No-Layoff Policies Perhaps the best way to secure union cooperation is to adopt a policy of no layoffs.
- Their purpose is to influence government to adopt policies favourable to them.
- This structure can neither impose law upon its members nor force one of them to adopt a policy with which it disagrees.
- Ultimately, planners adopted a policy of non-violence.
- Any careful cost-benefit analysis will show that every social practice and institution has limitations and presents difficulties as well as opportunities.
- Does this enable the court to take into account the comparative social utility of the product and apply a cost-benefit analysis?
- Easing actions were subject to an instant cost-benefit analysis.
- Economists have long been calling for safety regulations to be subject to cost-benefit analysis.
- Environmental intangibles have been built into the cost-benefit analysis in the same way as they are for road schemes.
- Few laws require cost-benefit analysis for new rules and many actively prohibit it.
- The port should have the results of a cost-benefit analysis within 120 days, Bowman said.
- The third approach to merger policy is the cost-benefit approach.
- After the Williams Report, it was very hard to argue convincingly for a laissez-faire approach to screen entertainment.
- In the light of this we briefly consider rules and laissez-faire approaches to mergers as alternatives to that of pragmatic cost-benefit.
- Market-orientated, almost laissez-faire attitudes figured ever more prominently in the Conservative Party when in opposition in the 1970s.
- Proponents of this laissez-faire approach have however themselves been challenged.
- The least they did was to adopt a laissez-faire attitude or one of deliberate non-interference so that the women felt free of pressure.
- Thus we might expect to move gradually to a more participative or laissez-faire approach.
- We don't take any bomb threat lightly.
- But Quality intends to take the softly-softly approach here.
- The uncertainty of such stop-go policies arguably reduced business confidence and discouraged investment.
As I approached the house, I noticed a light on upstairs. She heard footsteps approaching.2ask [transitive] to ask someone for something, or ask them to do something, especially when you are asking them for the first time or when you are not sure if they will do itapproach somebody for something Students should be able to approach teachers for advice.approach somebody/something about (doing) something The charity approached several stores about giving food aid. I have already been approached by several other companies (=offered a job, work etc). → approachable3future event [intransitive, transitive] if an event or a particular time approaches, or you approach it, it is coming nearer and will happen soon: She was then approaching the end of her career. The time is fast approaching when we will have to make a decision. With winter approaching, many animals are storing food.4deal with [transitive] to begin to deal with a situation or problem in a particular way or with a particular attitudeapproach a problem/task/matter etc It might be possible to approach the problem in a different way.5almost [intransitive, transitive] to be almost equal to something: temperatures approaching 35° C He’s never had anything approaching a normal life.