to approach / go on / close
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to go on
Describes the way something takes place or the general atmosphere in a place. This construction is used impersonally with 'es' (it).
Auf der Party ging es sehr lustig und laut zu.
At the party, things were very funny and loud.
'Zugehen' is a separable verb. The prefix 'zu-' appears at the end of the sentence in main clauses. In subordinate clauses, the whole verb stands at the end.
Der Reißverschluss meiner Jacke geht nicht mehr zu.
The zipper on my jacket doesn't close anymore.
To describe an atmosphere, the impersonal expression 'es geht ... zu' is used. The word that describes the atmosphere, usually an adverb, stands between 'geht' and 'zu'.
Bei der Familienfeier ging es immer sehr fröhlich zu.
At the family celebration, things were always very cheerful.
When 'zugehen' describes movement or making contact, it is always used with the preposition 'auf' and the accusative.
Der Hund ging freundlich auf die Kinder zu.
The dog approached the children in a friendly way.
The expression 'auf jemanden zugehen' can be meant literally, as in moving toward someone, or figuratively, as in making contact. The context of the situation—whether it is about physical movement or social interaction—makes the difference clear.
Ich sah ihn am anderen Ende der Straße und ging auf ihn zu.
I saw him at the other end of the street and walked toward him.
In the meaning of 'sich schließen' (to close), the verb is very often used in negative sentences to describe that a mechanism is not working. Typical objects are doors, windows, buttons, or zippers.
Dieser Knopf an meinem Hemd geht einfach nicht zu.
This button on my shirt just won't close.
to address / appeal to
'ansprechen' and 'auf jemanden zugehen' can both mean trying to make contact with a person. 'ansprechen' refers directly to starting a conversation: you say something to someone. 'auf jemanden zugehen' puts more emphasis on taking the initiative. It can also mean taking a first step to clear up a problem or improve a relationship. Learners may confuse the words because both often happen in the same situation: you go up to someone and then address them. If the concrete start of the conversation is important, 'ansprechen' fits better. If the brave or friendly first step is the focus, 'auf jemanden zugehen' sounds more natural.
Wenn du den Streit klären willst, geh am besten ruhig auf deinen Kollegen zu.
If you want to resolve the argument, it’s best to calmly reach out to your colleague.
Nach der Besprechung spricht Paul seine Chefin wegen des neuen Plans an.
After the meeting, Paul talks to his boss about the new plan.