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.
'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.
connection / association
'die Verbindung' and 'der Zugang' can both have to do with technology, the internet, or data. 'Verbindung' means that two devices or systems are technically connected and can transmit data. 'Zugang' is more about being allowed or able to use something, for example an account, a program, or information. Learners often confuse the words when talking about the internet and computers. A simple guide is: if the line or network is working, you talk about 'Verbindung'. If you are allowed or able to open and use something, you talk about 'Zugang'.
Nach der Anmeldung bekommt ihr Zugang zu den internen Dateien.
After registration, you will get access to the internal files.
Im Zug war die Verbindung zum Internet sehr langsam.
On the train, the internet connection was very slow.