approach

Everyday

1. To approach means to come nearer to someone or something («The train is approaching the platform»). tree →
2. To approach someone means to go to them to speak or ask something («approach a teacher for help»). tree →
3. An approach is a way of dealing with a problem or doing a task («a new approach to fractions»). tree →
4. An approach is also a path or road leading to a place. tree →

In the lessons

In maths and science pupils try different approaches (methods) to solve a problem. In road and rail safety announcements warn that a train or car is approaching, so stand back. In stories approaching footsteps, storms or danger build tension. In everyday safety, children learn what to do if a stranger approaches them. Phrases: «approach with care», «the approach of winter», «a different approach», «approaching fast».

Examples

• The train now approaching platform 2 does not stop here. tree →
• Approach the horse slowly from the side. tree →
• As we approached the house, the dog barked. tree →
• If a stranger approaches you, walk away and tell an adult. tree →
• Let's try a different approach to this problem. tree →
• The holidays are approaching fast. tree →
• The approach to the castle was steep and narrow. tree →
• You can approach your teacher if you need help. tree →
• "Approach, my son," he said kindly. tree →

Note

The verb takes a direct object, with no «to»: «approach the door», not «approach to the door». Plural noun «approaches». Adjective «approachable» (easy to talk to). In maths, «approaching 100» means getting close to 100.

In Jewish tradition

In the laws of Leviticus it means to come near, especially in a forbidden close relationship, or to come near to holy things.

Interpretation. Tradition reads these verses as the laws of forbidden relations, which guard family purity and holiness.

Examples

• None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him, to uncover their nakedness. (Torah LEV.18.6, JPS 1917) tree →
• Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy fathers brother, thou shalt not approach to his wife: she is thine aunt. (Torah LEV.18.14, JPS 1917) tree →
• And thou shalt not approach unto a woman to uncover her nakedness, as long as she is impure by her uncleanness. (Torah LEV.18.19, JPS 1917) tree →
• God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God shall help her, at the approach of morning. (Writings PSA.46.6, JPS 1917) tree →
• He is the beginning of the ways of God; He only that made him can make His sword to approach unto him. (Writings JOB.40.19, JPS 1917) tree →
• yea, while I was speaking in prayer, the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the beginning, being caused to fly swiftly, approached close to me about the time of the evening offering. (Writings DAN.9.21, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

The verb takes a direct object, with no «to»: «approach the door», not «approach to the door». Plural noun «approaches». Adjective «approachable» (easy to talk to). In maths, «approaching 100» means getting close to 100.