access
Loading your saved state.
access
The permission or possibility to enter a particular place, building, or area.
Der Zutritt zum Backstage-Bereich ist nur mit einem speziellen Ausweis gestattet.
Access to the backstage area is only permitted with a special ID.
'Der Zutritt' (access) is related to the verb 'treten' (to step) and the prefix 'zu-' (towards). So it literally describes the act of approaching a place and entering it.
Bitte treten Sie näher.
Please step closer.
The noun 'Zutritt' (access) is almost always used with the preposition 'zu' + dative to name the place that one is allowed or wants to enter.
Haben Sie Zutritt zu den geheimen Akten?
Do you have access to the secret files?
Common verbs used with 'Zutritt' (access) are 'Zutritt haben' (to have access), 'Zutritt bekommen' (to get access), 'jemandem Zutritt gewähren' (to grant someone access/allow someone in), or 'jemandem Zutritt verweigern' (to deny someone access/forbid someone to enter).
Der Wachmann verweigerte uns den Zutritt.
The security guard denied us access.
'Zutritt' (access) is a formal and official word. You often find it on signs, in rules, or in official documents.
Auf dem Schild stand: „Zutritt für Unbefugte verboten!“
The sign said: 'No unauthorized access!'
access / entrance
Zugang generally refers to the physical possibility of entering a place, for example through an entrance. Zutritt, by contrast, emphasizes that someone is actually allowed or able to enter a place, often when access is restricted. Use Zugang when talking about the route or entrance, and Zutritt when talking about permission to enter.
Zum Gebäude haben nur angemeldete Gäste Zutritt.
Only registered guests are allowed into the building.
Der Zugang zum Gebäude erfolgt durch den Seiteneingang.
The building can be accessed through the side entrance.
