zu|greifen
Translation
to access, to grab, to seize, to help oneself
Examples
Er greift auf die Daten zu.
He is accessing the data.
Greifen Sie ruhig zu!
Please, help yourself!
Die Polizei musste zugreifen.
The police had to intervene.
Grammar Patterns
((on sth. acc.)) to access sth. He accesses the database.
((at sth. dat.)) to help oneself to sth. Please help yourself at the buffet.
Similar Words
Synonyms: ergreifen, fassen, sich bedienen; Antonyms: loslassen, vermeiden
Etymology
From 'zu' (towards) + 'greifen' (to grip/grab). Literally means 'to grab towards'.
Memory Tips
Imagine reaching 'towards' (zu) something to 'grab' (greifen) it, like accessing a file or helping yourself to food.