access
12 synonyms and 0 antonyms for access, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The right or ability to enter, use, or obtain something.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use access
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin accessus, "an approach," from accedere ("to approach"), built from ad- ("to") plus cedere ("to go, move").
Full origin of access →Frequently asked questions
What does “access” mean?
The word “access” means the right or ability to enter, use, or obtain something. In plain terms, the ability to get into, use, or reach something, or the act of doing so.
How do you pronounce “access”?
“Access” is pronounced AK-sehs (/ˈækˌsɛs/ in IPA).
How do you use “access” in a sentence?
Here is “access” used in a sentence: “Employees need a keycard to gain access to the building.”
What part of speech is “access”?
Depending on how it is used, “access” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “access” come from?
The word “access” comes from Latin. From Latin accessus, "an approach," from accedere ("to approach"), built from ad- ("to") plus cedere ("to go, move").
Is “access” a common word?
“Access” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “access” have?
“Access” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the right or ability to enter, use, or obtain something.
What is the difference between access and entry?
Entry is the physical act of going into a place. Access is broader — the right or ability to enter, use, or obtain something, which may not be physical at all. You can have access to a building, but also to information, funds, or healthcare. Access is about permission and possibility; entry is about going in.
What are the types of access?
Access can be physical (entering a building or room), digital (logging into an account, network, or file), and legal or social (the right to services, education, or records). In computing, "access" often describes permission levels such as read, write, or admin. In every case it combines the ability and the right to reach something.
Can access be restricted?
Yes. Access is often controlled or limited — by locks, passwords, permissions, memberships, or laws. Restricting access keeps out people who lack the right or need to enter or use something, which is central to security and privacy. Granting access does the opposite, letting someone in or giving them use of a resource.