access / entrance
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entrance
A physical way to enter a place; an entrance or access road.
Wegen der Baustelle ist der Zugang zum Hauptgebäude nur über den Hinterhof möglich.
Because of the construction site, access to the main building is only possible through the back courtyard.
access
The authorization or possibility to use something or access it, for example information, data, or services.
Für diesen Kurs benötigen Sie einen Zugang zum Online-Portal der Universität.
For this course, you need access to the university's online portal.
connection
A way of understanding or an emotional connection to a person or topic.
Ich finde einfach keinen Zugang zu klassischer Musik.
I just can't find any connection to classical music.
receipt / arrival
The receipt or arrival of something, especially in a formal or business context (e.g., mail, a delivery, an application).
Wir bestätigen hiermit den Zugang Ihrer Unterlagen vom 15. Mai.
We hereby confirm receipt of your documents dated May 15.
'Zugang' (access/entrance) is made up of the preposition 'zu' (to) and the noun 'Gang' (from 'gehen', to go). It literally describes the path or possibility of getting to something or someone.
Der einzige Zugang zur Burg ist eine schmale Brücke.
The only access to the castle is a narrow bridge.
The noun 'Zugang' (access/entrance) is almost always used with the preposition 'zu' and the dative. Typical verbs are 'haben' (to have), 'bekommen' (to get), 'finden' (to find), or 'sperren' (to block/close).
Haben Sie Zugang zu den geheimen Akten?
Do you have access to the secret files?
The exact meaning of 'Zugang' (access/entrance) depends on the object. 'Zugang zu einem Gebäude' (access to a building) is physical, 'Zugang zum Internet' (access to the internet) is technical, and 'Zugang zu einer Person' (access/connection to a person) is emotional or intellectual.
Der Zugang zum Museum ist barrierefrei.
Access to the museum is barrier-free.
In a digital context, people often speak of 'Zugangsdaten' (login/access data). These are the pieces of information such as username and password that you need to log in.
Ich habe meine Zugangsdaten für das Online-Banking vergessen.
I forgot my login details for online banking.
The meaning 'receipt' or 'arrival' is used mainly in formal written language, such as in business letters or communication with authorities. The 'Zugang' (receipt) of documents is often 'bestätigt' (confirmed) in writing.
Wir bestätigen den Zugang Ihrer Bewerbung vom 10. Oktober.
We confirm receipt of your application dated October 10.
door
Tür can figuratively refer to a new opportunity or possibility. Zugang, by contrast, means the specific possibility or authorization to use something. Use Tür when a career opportunity opens up; use Zugang when someone is allowed to use or reach something.
Das Stipendium gibt ihr Zugang zu einer sonst unbezahlbaren Weiterbildung.
The scholarship gives her access to otherwise unaffordable further education.
Das Stipendium öffnet ihr die Tür zu einer internationalen Karriere.
The scholarship opens the door to an international career for her.
