gaining access

USAGE SUMMARY

"gaining access" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to obtain entry or permission to something or somewhere. Example: "The new security system ensures that only authorized personnel are capable of gaining access to the building after hours." This example shows the phrase being used to describe the process of obtaining entry to a building, in this case through a security system.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But gaining access to the newest ports isn't without wrinkles.

The New York Times

"They're a way of gaining access to data.

The Guardian - Tech

But gaining access to social media accounts can be tricky.

The New York Times

But gaining access to these pricey drugs remains a challenge.

Harvard University

Stanford benefits by gaining access to real-world research problems.

Stanford University

Those interests can include gaining access to technology, helping local suppliers or customers, gaining access to resources, assuring local employment or making all types of political points.

The New York Times

But it is interested in gaining access to Western markets for its well-qualified software experts.

The New York Times

They were given wrong directions for gaining access to the class Web site.

The New York Times

How many more people are gaining access to affordable health insurance?

The New York Times

The majority of these people are gaining access to financial services, health services or energy.

The Guardian

Mr. Powell acknowledged yesterday that gaining access to the list might be a problem.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gaining access", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being accessed and by whom. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "gaining access" vaguely. Specify the limitations or extent of the access being obtained to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gaining access" functions as a gerund phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the process of obtaining the ability or right to enter, use, or view something. Ludwig shows examples of it describing obtaining entry to restricted information or places.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

29%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gaining access" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed gerund phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively describes the process of obtaining entry or permission. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, from news and media to academic and scientific writing. To ensure clarity, specify what and how access is being obtained. Common alternatives include "obtaining entry" and "securing admission". With a high expert rating, "gaining access" remains a valuable and versatile phrase in English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obtaining entry

Focuses on the act of physically entering a place.

securing admission

Emphasizes obtaining official permission or acceptance.

acquiring permission

Highlights the act of getting approval to do something.

achieving entry

Suggests effort or overcoming obstacles to enter.

winning entry

Implies competition or a selection process to gain entry.

facilitating access

Focuses on making it easier for others to gain entry.

opening access

Highlights the act of making access available.

earning access

Suggests that access is a reward for effort or merit.

procuring access

Implies a formal or official process of obtaining access.

unlocking access

Suggests removing a barrier or obstacle to gain access.

FAQs

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

You can use "gaining access" to describe the act of obtaining entry or permission to something, like "The company is focused on "gaining access" to new markets."

What are some alternatives to "gaining access"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "gaining access" include "obtaining entry", "securing admission", or "acquiring permission".

Is it correct to say "accessing" instead of "gaining access"?

While "accessing" can be used, "gaining access" often implies the process of obtaining the ability to access something, whereas "accessing" refers to the actual act of using or entering something.

What's the difference between "gaining access" and "having access"?

"Gaining access" describes the action of obtaining the ability to enter or use something, while "having access" describes the state of already possessing that ability. For example, after "gaining access", you then "have access".