address (oneself) to (someone or something)

address (oneself) to (someone or something)

1. To speak to a specific person or group at the exclusion of others. Right now, I'm only addressing myself to the graduating seniors. I'll talk to the other grades tomorrow.2. To focus on a certain problem or situation. I needed to address myself to the burst pipe in my basement—that's why I didn't attend the dinner party.See also: address

address oneself to someone

to speak directly to a particular person, rather than someone else. I did not address myself to you!See also: address

address oneself to something

to turn one's complete attention to something, such as a problem or an issue. (See also something to someone">address something to someone.) Please address yourself to these current, pressing problems.See also: address

address something to someone

to write someone's name and address on an envelope, package, letter, etc. Gilbert addressed the envelope to Walter.See also: address

address to

v.1. To indicate that something is to be sent to someone or some place by writing an address on it: She addressed the letter to her brother.2. To say something directly to some specific person or group: The school president addressed the speech to everyone who plans to graduate this year.3. To focus someone on a problem in order to find a solution. Used reflexively: In the next meeting, the town officials will address themselves to the issue of privacy.See also: address