zu|greifen
Translation
to access, to grab, to help oneself
Examples
Er hat auf die Datei zugegriffen.
He accessed the file.
Greifen Sie beim Kuchen ruhig zu!
Please help yourself to the cake!
Grammar Patterns
((auf+4)) to access sth. He accessed the secret data.
((bei+3)) to help oneself to sth. He helped himself generously to the food.
Similar Words
ergreifen (to seize), fassen (to grasp), sich bedienen (to help oneself)
Etymology
From 'zu-' (towards) + 'greifen' (to grab). Literally 'to grab towards'.
Memory Tips
Picture reaching 'towards' (zu) a plate of cookies to 'grab' (greifen) one, i.e., 'to help oneself'.