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Definition of access verb from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

access

verb
 
/ˈækses/
 
/ˈækses/
Verb Forms
present simple I / you / we / they access
 
/ˈækses/
 
/ˈækses/
he / she / it accesses
 
/ˈæksesɪz/
 
/ˈæksesɪz/
past simple accessed
 
/ˈæksest/
 
/ˈæksest/
past participle accessed
 
/ˈæksest/
 
/ˈæksest/
-ing form accessing
 
/ˈæksesɪŋ/
 
/ˈæksesɪŋ/
jump to other results
  1. access something (computing) to open a computer file or use a computer system
    • Most people use their phones to access the internet.
    • to access a file/database
    • It has never been easier to access information.
    • All employees can access real-time data.
    • You should regularly change the password you use to access your online accounts.
    • access something via/through something Their website can be accessed via the link below.
    Extra Examples
    • Employees can access repair records, customer histories and forms in real time.
    • When people travel, they need to access their email.
    • More people access the Web by phone than by PC.
    • The electronic library catalogue can be accessed from terminals all over the university.
    Topics Computersb1
  2. access something to be able to have or use something, especially something that you have a right to
    • Being informed is the first step towards accessing better health services.
    • States need to understand how to access the federal resources that are available.
    • Businesses often provide their products at a discount in order to access a potential market.
  3. [often passive] (formal) to reach, enter or use something
    • be accessed (+ adv./prep.) The loft can be accessed by a ladder.
    • The balcony is accessed via French doors from the living room.
    Extra Examples
    • Single rooms have private facilities accessed via the balcony.
    • The village is easily accessed by public transport.
  4. Word Originearly 17th cent.: from Latin accessus, from the verb accedere ‘to approach’, from ad- ‘to’ + cedere ‘give way, yield’
See access in the Oxford Advanced American DictionarySee access in the Oxford Learner's Dictionary of Academic English
ancient
adjective
 
 
From the Word list
Oxford 3000
A2
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