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.
address oneself to someone
to speak directly to a particular person, rather than someone else. I did not address myself to you!
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.
address something to someone
to write someone's name and address on an envelope, package, letter, etc. Gilbert addressed the envelope to Walter.
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.