reach

Universal Words verb, noun verb arrive 1 [VN] to arrive at the place that you have been travelling to: They didn't reach the border until after dark. * The beach can only be reached by boat. * I hope this letter reaches you. 2 [VN] to come to sb's attention: The rumours eventually reached the President. level / speed / stage 3 [VN] to increase to a particular level, speed, etc. over a period of time: The conflict has now reached a new level of intensity. * Daytime temperatures can reach 40ｰC. 4 [VN] to arrive at a particular point or stage of sth after a period of time: He first reached the finals in 1998. * His parents have not yet reached retirement age. * The negotiations have reached deadlock. achieve aim 5 [VN] to achieve a particular aim SYNARRIVEAT: to reach a conclusion / decision / verdict / compromise * Politicians again failed to reach an agreement. seealsoFAR-REACHING with hand / arm 6 [+adv./prep.] to stretch your hand towards sth in order to touch it, pick it up, etc: [V] She reached inside her bag for a pen. * He reached across the table to squeeze her hand. * [VN] He reached out his hand to touch her. 7 to be able to stretch your hand far enough in order to touch sth, pick sth up, etc: [V] 'Grab the end of the rope.' 'I can't reach that far!' * [VN] Can you reach the light switch from where you're sitting? 8 ~ sth (down) for sb