deny access

USAGE SUMMARY

"deny access" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone refusing you or another person entrance or access to something. For example, "The principal denied access to the school dance for students who didn't have permission slips."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Not least, they deny access to the royal presence.

The Economist

Militants still deny access to most of the pipeline route.

The Guardian

UIC is used to grant or deny access to system objects, such as files.

Getting Started with OpenVMS A Guide for New Users

No one is allowed to own one or deny access to anyone else.

The Economist

Have you ever taken steps to deny access to such information?

The New York Times

The authorities barred foreign journalists but could not deny access to British consular officials.

The New York Times

Tells about her ability to deny access to stars, which makes her powerful in Hollywood.

The New Yorker

At the same time, officials are free to grant or deny access or interviews".

The Guardian

Were the acts designed in order to deny access to work and permit homelessness?" he wonders.

The Guardian

Suffield and Somers deny access to anyone under 12 without a parent.

The New York Times

This, too, could be interpreted as a free pass to deny access to contraception.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about restrictions, be specific about who is being denied access and the reasons behind it. For example, instead of saying "They deny access", specify "The library denies access to individuals without a valid library card".

Common error

Avoid using passive voice constructions that obscure who is doing the denying. Active voice makes your writing clearer and more impactful. Instead of "Access was denied", write "The administrator denied access".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deny access" functions primarily as a verb phrase used to describe the act of preventing someone or something from gaining entry or use of a particular resource. As Ludwig AI explains, it refers to someone refusing entrance or access to something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "deny access" is a versatile and frequently used verb phrase that describes the act of preventing someone or something from gaining entry, use, or interaction with a particular resource. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It appears most often in news and media, academic, and scientific contexts, indicating its broad applicability across various registers, from neutral to formal. When using "deny access", it is important to be specific about who is being denied access and the reasons behind it, while avoiding vague or passive constructions. Consider alternatives like "reject access", "withhold access", or "prohibit access" to refine the nuance of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deny admission

Focuses specifically on refusing entry or admittance.

reject access

Emphasizes a more forceful or direct refusal.

withhold access

Highlights the act of keeping something from being accessed.

prohibit access

Implies a formal or legal ban on access.

block entry

Directly refers to preventing someone from entering a place.

restrict entry

Suggests limitations on who or when someone can enter.

bar access

Indicates a complete obstruction or prevention of access.

exclude from access

Highlights the act of leaving someone out of accessing something.

refuse entry

Simply means not allowing someone to enter.

obstruct access

Implies creating obstacles that prevent access.

FAQs

How can I use "deny access" in a sentence?

You can use "deny access" to indicate that someone or something is being refused entry, use of, or interaction with something. For example, "The bouncer will "deny admission" to anyone not wearing appropriate attire."

What are some alternatives to "deny access"?

Alternatives include "reject access", "withhold access", or "prohibit access". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is it better to say "deny access to" or "deny access from"?

It is generally more correct to say "deny access to". For example, "The firewall will deny access to unauthorized websites." The phrase "deny access from" is less common and can sound awkward.

What's the difference between "deny access" and "restrict access"?

"Deny access" implies a complete refusal, while "restrict access" suggests limitations or partial refusal. You "deny admission" entirely, but you might "limit access" by time of day, location, or user group.