The phrase "within reach" is spelled /wɪðɪn riːtʃ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "wi" in "within" is pronounced with a short "i" sound, similar to "win." The "th" in "within" is pronounced as a voiceless dental fricative, represented by the symbol "ð" in IPA. The "ch" in "reach" is pronounced as a voiceless postalveolar affricate, represented by the symbol "tʃ" in IPA. When combined, these sounds create the familiar phrase, meaning something is easily accessible or obtainable.
Within reach refers to something that is close enough to be easily obtained, accessed or achieved. When something is within reach, it is physically or figuratively close by, such that it requires little effort, time or resources to obtain or accomplish.
The term is commonly used to describe physical objects, indicating that an item can be easily accessed or grabbed without requiring much movement or stretching. For example, if an object is within reach on a shelf, it implies that it can be easily picked up or touched without having to move to a different location or exert significant effort.
Beyond its literal interpretation, within reach can also be used in a figurative sense. In this context, it implies that a goal, opportunity, or accomplishment is close enough to be attainable. It suggests that success or achievement is within the realm of possibilities and can be realized with some effort or action. For instance, a person might say that a promotion or financial stability is within their reach if they believe it is achievable through their current efforts or by taking additional steps.
Overall, within reach indicates a tangible proximity, either physically or metaphorically, and suggests that something is nearby and easily attainable.
The etymology of the phrase "within reach" can be traced back to the combination of two separate words.
1. Within: The word "within" has its roots in Old English, derived from the word "wiðinnan". It can be further broken down into two parts: "wið", meaning "against" or "back", and "innan", meaning "inside" or "within". Over time, these elements evolved to become "within", signifying something inside a given boundary or distance.
2. Reach: The word "reach" also has its origins in Old English, specifically from the word "ræcan". It has ties to the Proto-Germanic word "reikan", which means "to stretch out" or "extend". As time passed, "ræcan" evolved into "reach", commonly used to express the act of stretching out one's hand or arm to touch or grab something.