This is the 7559th most frequent German word.
greifen
To grab, grasp, or reach for something.
The word 'greifen' here is used to mean 'to reach for' or 'to grasp physically'.
Ich greife nach dem Buch, das auf dem Tisch liegt.
I am reaching for the book that is lying on the table.
In this context, 'greifen zu' means taking action or measures, showcasing a figurative use.
Die Regierung greift zu Maßnahmen, um die Wirtschaft anzukurbeln.
The government is taking measures to stimulate the economy.
'Greifen' in this sentence expresses the idea of something working or fitting effectively in a particular context.