noun
Common
approaches
uh-PROHT-sheez
Approaches (noun) means Different methods or ways of handling something (plural of approach). Example: “The team tried several approaches before finding one that worked.”
noun
1
Different methods or ways of handling something (plural of approach).
"The team tried several approaches before finding one that worked."
"Teachers use different approaches to help children who find reading difficult."
"Her approaches to solving problems are always creative and patient."
verb
1
He/she/it moves closer to something (verb form of approach).
"The deadline approaches, and we still have work to do."
"The plane approaches the runway slowly as the pilot checks the wind."
"Winter approaches, so the birds are already flying south."
How to use approaches
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe plural noun form ("methods") or the he/she/it verb form of approach.
Common pairings
various approaches
as the deadline approaches
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The team tried several _____ before finding one that worked.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for approaches
See all rhymes for approaches →Frequently asked questions
What does “approaches” mean?
The word “approaches” means different methods or ways of handling something (plural of approach). In plain terms, the plural noun form ("methods") or the he/she/it verb form of approach.
How do you pronounce “approaches”?
“Approaches” is pronounced uh-PROHT-sheez (/əˈpɹoʊt͡ʃiz/ in IPA).
How do you use “approaches” in a sentence?
Here is “approaches” used in a sentence: “The team tried several approaches before finding one that worked.”
What part of speech is “approaches”?
Depending on how it is used, “approaches” can be a noun and a verb.
Is “approaches” a common word?
“Approaches” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “approaches” have?
“Approaches” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: different methods or ways of handling something (plural of approach).
What is the difference between "approaches" and "methods"?
An approach is a broad way of handling or thinking about something, while a method is a more specific, step-by-step procedure. You might take a cautious approach but use a particular method to carry it out.
Should you say "approaches to" or "approaches for" a problem?
The usual pairing is "approaches to," as in "different approaches to teaching." "Approaches for" is far less common and can sound unnatural when describing ways of handling something.
Is "approaches" a noun or a verb?
It can be both. As a noun it is the plural of approach, meaning different methods or ways of handling something; as a verb it is the third-person form, meaning he, she or it moves closer to something.
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