Expressions using the word get

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In today’s post, you’ll learn 20 common expressions with the word GET. You can watch my YouTube video or keep scrolling. 

Number 1: to get to the bottom of something

Definition: to find the cause of a problem

Detectives are trying to get to the bottom of the case.
They are trying to find the cause to solve the mystery. 

We need to get to the bottom of why our computers keep crashing.
We need to find the cause of the problem so we can fix it. 

Number 2: to get something over with 

Definition: to do something you don’t want to do, so you can stop thinking about it

A: I don’t want to call the dentist. 
B:  Just get it over with.
Do it so you can stop thinking about it.

I’m nervous about asking my boss for a raise. But, the sooner I get it over with, the better.
I need to do this so I can stop thinking about it. 

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Number 3: to get something over and done with.

The same as #2, but more emphatic. 

I prefer to get my taxes over and done with at the start of every year.

Number 4: to get over something

Definition : to recover from an illness or a sad event 

It took me 2 weeks to get over my cold. I finally feel better.

It always takes time to get over a break-up.

Don’t confuse numbers 2, 3, and 4. Let’s compare:

Number 2/3:

A: Do we have to go over to Bianca’s house to see her new baby? 
B: We have to do it eventually. Let’s just get it over with. 

Number 4:

She never got over the death of her grandma.

Number 5: Don’t get me started. 

Definition: I feel negatively about this topic. It’s best if I don’t start talking about it. If I do, I will talk about it for a long time in an angry way. 

A: What do you think about your brother selling your grandma’s house?
B: Don’t get me started. That house has been in our family for generations. 

Don’t get Tyler started on politics. Please.

Number 6: to get together

Definition: for two or more people to meet in a social situation 

Can we get together sometime soon? 

All of my classmates got together for a picnic on Saturday. 

My cousins and I rarely get together. 

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Number 7: to get something off your chest 

Definition: to talk to someone about something that has been bothering you for a long time 

I know something is worrying you. Come on, get it off your chest. You can talk to me. 

I told the police everything I knew. It was good to get it off my chest. 

Number 8: to get cold feet 

Definition: to feel scared or nervous so you don’t want to do something

Usually you get cold feet before a big event like your wedding.

The groom got cold feet a week before the wedding and canceled everything. 

I’ve canceled my driving test 3 times. I always get cold feet the day before. 

*If someone gets cold feet we don’t know if they will actually cancel the event, but usually they do. 

Number 9: to get your foot in the door 

Definition: to start your career 

Internships are a great way to get your foot in the door. 

I’m volunteering at a vet clinic twice a week because I have to do something to get my foot in the door. 

Number 10: Don’t get me wrong

Definition: Don’t think negatively of me, but this is my honest opinion. 

We use the expression like this: 

Don’t get me wrong + something positive, but + something negative 

Don’t get me wrong, I think the new hospital is a good idea, but how much is this going to cost the taxpayer? 

Don’t get me wrong, Linda is a good friend of mine, but I’m not interested in helping her with all of her personal problems.

Number 11: to get carried away 

Definition: to become so excited that you cannot control your thoughts or actions. 

It’s like the snowball effect. You start with a little snowball, and it gets bigger and bigger and soon you can’t control it.

I got carried away planning my husband’s surprise birthday party and invited over 200 guests to our house. 

My dog gets carried away when playing and starts to bite. 

Number 12: to get your hopes up 

Definition: to become excited before anything happens. 

I don’t want to get my hopes up, but I think I got the job.

Don’t get your hopes up about going to the beach this Saturday. It looks like it’s going to rain.

Number 13: to get by 

Definition: to have the minimum amount of money to survive

After I lost my job, I managed to get by on my savings.

 I work three jobs just to get by. 

Number 14: to get one’s way 

Definition: to get what you want despite what other people might want 

Sue always gets her way because she’s the little sister. 

We all know Jeff will get his way because he’s the boss’s son. 

Number 15: can’t get enough of something 

Definition: you love something so much, you want more 

Usually we are speaking about food.

I can’t get enough of my grandma’s cooking. 

Fans can’t get enough of her music. They love her music, they want more. 

Number 16: something gets on your nerves

Definition: something annoys you and makes you a little angry 

One of my colleagues gets on my nerves because she breathes so loudly. I can’t focus on my work.

All of these spam emails get on my nerves. I get over 50 per day! 

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Number 17: to get bad press 

Definition: to be criticized in the news 

If our bank gets bad press, we are ruined! 

It seems to me that the president gets bad press no matter what he does. 

Number 18: to get going 

Number 19: to get moving

Definition: you need to leave because you have something else planned / something else to do

A: Would you like another cup of tea?
B: No thanks. I need to get going. / I need to get moving. 

Our train leaves in an hour.  We should get going. We should get moving. 

Number 20: to get the hang of something 

Definition: to learn and understand how to do something over time

A: How do you feel about using the present perfect?
B: I think I’m starting to get the hang of it.
I think I’m slowly starting to understand it. 

I’m struggling in my new job, but I’m sure I’ll get the hang of it.

Thank you so much for reading today’s blogpost! Which expression was your favorite? Let me know in the comments below! 

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Get — глагол универсальный и многоликий. Если вы начнете уважать его, он ответит вам взаимностью и будет помогать вам до конца ваших дней. Подробно о всех его значениях и функциях в английском языке я писала в статье “Почему нужно полюбить глагол get?” Здесь я постараюсь привести широкий список фразовых глаголов с get. Я назвала эту статью “(Почти) Все фразовые глаголы с get”, так как, по-моему, невозможно привести действительно полный перечень. Get используется крайне часто, и значения его появляются и исчезают в языке с огромной скоростью. Но я вам привожу все возможные вариации, которые я знаю и которые я смогла найти, с примерами и переводом. Если вы считаете, что я что-то пропустила, буду рада вашим комментариям и дополнениям!

 

get about — двигаться, передвигаться

Even though he’s ninety, he gets about pretty well.

(Несмотря на то, что ему девяносто, он неплохо передвигается)

get above oneself — зазнаваться, заноситься

Alan got above himself after being promoted to chief director.

(Алан начал зазнаваться после того, как его повысили до главного директора)

get ahead (in something) — преуспеть, продвинуться вперед

Sally’s really getting ahead in the investigation.

(Салли продвигается вперед в расследовании)

get after somebody/something — гнаться; бранить, стоять у кого-то над душой

Paul’s getting after Jimmy because they’re playing hide-and-seek.

(Пол гоняется за Джимми, потому что они играют в прятки)

Tony is always getting after me about how to solve my problems.

(Тони всегда стоит у меня над душой по поводу того, как решить мои проблемы)

get along (in something) – жить, продвигаться, справляться, преуспевать

How are you getting along in your job?

(Как ты справляешься на работе)

get along without something — обходиться без чего-либо

John could get along without food or sleep.

(Джон мог обходиться без пищи и сна)

get along with somebody/get on with somebody — ладить с кем-то

He doesn’t get along with his sister.

(Он не ладит со своей сестрой)

get along – (разг.) уходить, убираться

I think I’ll be getting along now, it’s late.

(Думаю, мне пора уйти, уже поздно)

get at something — намекать, подразумевать

I don’t know what the lawyer was getting at, but I didn’t like it.

(Не знаю, на что намекает юрист, но мне это не нравится)

What exactly are you getting at?

(На что это ты намекаешь?)

get at something — добираться до, докапываться до

We wanted to get at the root of the problem.

(Он хотел добраться до сути проблемы)

The report is locked in the cabinet and I can’t get at them.

(Отчет заперт в шкафу, и я не могу до него добраться)

get somebody around – навещать, посещать, приводить (кого-л.) в гости

Get your new boyfriend round to see us.

(Приведи своего нового парня в гости к нам)

get around — распространять, становиться известным

It’s a small place, so news and gossip get around pretty quickly.

(Это маленькое место, поэтому слухи и сплети распространяются довольно быстро)

get around — избежать, обходить (закон), обмануть, перехитрить

There is no way of getting around it — you are going to have to tell her the truth.

(Этого не избежать, — тебе придется рассказать ей правду)

Isn’t there any way of getting around the regulations?

(Неужели никак не обойти эти положения?)

get around to something — находить время для чего-то, удосуживаться, добраться до какого-то дела

I can’t get around to it.

(Все никак не могут найти времени для этого)

I meant to call you, but somehow I never got around to it

(Я собирался тебе позвонить, но руки так и не дошли)

get away — ускользнуть, уйти, выйти из положения

The prisoner tried to get away, but the officer caught him.

(Заключенный попытался убежать, но офицер поймал его)

get away — выбраться, быть в отпуске

We hope to get away for a couple of weeks around Christmas.

(Надеюсь уехать в отпуск на несколько недель на Рождество)

get away! – прочь! уйди! (приказ, просьба)

Get away from me.

(Отстаньте от меня)

get away with — легко отделаться, сделать что-то безнаказанно, оставаться безнаказанным

He tries to get away with cheating, but they keep catching him.

(Он пытается сделать так, чтобы обман сошел ему с рук, но они его постоянно ловят)

get across — четко изложить, донести, передавать

Although I couldn’t speak the language, I managed to get my meaning across.

(Несмотря на то, что я не разговаривал на этом языке, я смог донести свою мысль)

Your meaning didn’t really get across.

(То, что ты имел в виду, не совсем понятно)

get back — возвращаться

If you are getting back early we could go to the movies.

(Если ты планируешь вернуться раньше, мы бы согли пойти в кино)

get back together – возобновить отношения

We decided to get back together.

(Мы решили возобновить отношения)

get back at somebody — наказывать кого-либо, отомстить, отплатить

Clark got back at Bill for telling his mother he cut classes.

(Кларк отомстил Биллу за то, что он рассказал его маме, как Кларк прогуливал уроки)

get back into (routine) — войти в колею, вернуться к делам

Two years after the accident, Jen was able to get back into her job.

(Через два года после происшествия Джен смогла вернуться на свою работу)

get back to somebody — перезвонить, ответить кому-либо позже, связаться позже

I have to go, my boss is coming. I’ll get back to you when I get home.

(Мне нужно идти — начальник возвращается. Я перезвоню тебе, когда буду дома)

get behind with something — отстать в чем-то, не успевать в чем-то, задерживать (оплату)

I got behind with the payment of the house, I need the money!

(Я не успеваю с оплатой за дом, мне нужны деньги)

It’s easy to get behind with your knowledge on this subject.

(Легко отстать от современного уровня знаний по этому предмету)

get behind somebody — поддерживать кого-либо

The students got behind Mrs. Thomas when they knew she was being fired unfairly.

(Студенты поддержали миссис Томас, когда они узнали, что она была несправедливо уволена)

get by — сводить концы с концами, справляться, жить

We got by even though we didn’t have much money.

(Мы справлялись, даже если у нас не было много денег)

Some people have to work three jobs just barely to get by.

(Некоторые люди должны работать на трех работах, чтобы все лишь сводить концы с концами)

He’s just trying to get by like the rest of us.

(Он лишь пытается выжить, как и все мы)

get down — удручать, приводить в уныние, угнетать

This weather is getting me down.

(Эта погода меня угнетает)

Don’t let these problems get you down too much.

(Не позволяй этим проблемам сломать тебя)

get down — наклониться

When Kelly saw the man with a gun, she immediately got down.

(Когда Келли увидела человека с пистолетом, она сразу же пригнулась)

get down — тусить, зажигать, отрываться

Let’s have a little fun and get down tonight!

(Давай повеселимся и пойдет тусить сегодня!)

get something down — записать

Get the agreement down on paper so we can all sign it.

(Нужно зафиксировать соглашение в письменном виде, чтобы мы все смогли подписать его)

get down on somebody — критиковать, наседать на кого-либо

My mother keeps getting down on me for going out every night.

(Мама никак не отстанет от меня из-за того, что я хожу гулять каждый вечер)

get down to — приняться, засесть; приступить к чему-то

Now, let’s get down to business.

(Пора приняться за дело)

It’s time I got down to some serious work.

(Пора приступить к важной работе)

Once it is summer, we will get down to painting the house.

(Как только наступит лето, мы приступим к покраске дома)

get in — прибывать, входить, поступить (в университет), попасть

Let’s go! The plane’ll get in soon and Dan will wonder where we are.

(Пошли! Самолет скоро прибудет, и Дэн начнет волноваться о том, где ты)

The package must be got in by seven sharp.

(Посылка должа быть получена ровно в семь)

How did you get in here? I never gave you the key!

(Как ты сюда попал? Я никогда тебе не давал ключ)

Did your son get in? Mine did.

(Твой сын поступил? Мой поступил)

get something in — вставлять, вворачивать (слова)

May I get a word in?

(Могу я вставить словечко?)

get in on something — войти в пай, участвовать, принимать участие

What do I need to get in on the team?

(Что мне нужно, чтобы попасть в команду?)

get in with somebody — быть на дружеской ноге, подружиться, сойтись с кем-либо

John thought he could pass the exam by getting in with the teacher and he got an F.

(Джон думал, что он сможет сдать экзамен, если подружится с учителем, и получил F)

get into — садиться в автомобиль (частный транспорт; get on — садиться в общественный транспорт)

We got in the car and went away.

(Мы сели в машину и уехали)

get into — заинтересоваться, начать заниматься чем-то

You won’t believe it, but Jerry got into swimming last week.

(Ты не поверишь этому, но Джерри начал заниматься плаванием на прошлой неделе)

get off — слезть, отделаться, спасаться

Nina needs medical help to get off drugs.

(Нине требуется медицинская помощь, чтобы слезть с наркотиков)

get off – спастись, избежать ранения; (разг.) избежать наказания, выйти сухим из воды

The man went to prison but the two boys got off with a warning.

(Мужчина попал в тюрьму, а вот два мальчика отделались предупреждением)

He was charged with public indecency, but the lawyer got him off.

(Его обвинили в непристойном поведении в общественном месте, но юрист избавил его от наказания)

get off — выйти из общественного транспорта

We got off the bus at the last stop.

(Мы вышли из автобуса на последней остановке)

get off – отбывать, отправляться

We must be getting off now.

(Нам пора отправляться)

Get off my car!

(Отойди прочь от моей машины!)

get off – начинать

He got off to a flying start.

(Он начал блестяще)

get off – чистить, выводить (пятно)

There’s a dirty mark on the wall that I can’t get off.

(Тут на стене есть грязное пятно, никак не могу его вывести)

get something off — снимать (одежду)

Can you get this dress off and try a new skirt on?

(Ты можешь снять это платье и примерить новую юбку?)

get on (well) with somebody — ладить, находить общий язык

They got on well together.

(Они ладят друг с другом)

Sally’s son and his stepfather are finally getting on well.

(Сыл Салли и его дедушка, наконец, стали ладить друг с другом)

get on — садиться в транспортное средство

He got on his bicycle and rode away.

(Он сел на велосипед и уехал)

He got on the bus.

(Он сел на автобус)

get something on — надевать что-то

Get your boots on if you are going out, it’s raining heavily.

(Надень свои сапоги, если ты собираешься выходить, — идет сильный дождь)

get on with something – приступить к, или продолжить какое-л. дело; двигаться дальше

Get on with it.

(Приступайте / продолжайте)

Don’t take notice of me and get on with cooking.

(Не обращай на меня внимания и продолжай готовить)

get on to — добираться до кого-либо, застать кого-либо

Get on to the mechanic, this is something I can’t fix.

(Иди к механику, я это не могу починить)

get onto something – знать что-либо, быть в курсе дела, разобраться в чем-либо; разоблачить, связаться с кем-либо

She’s got onto her new job in this firm.

(Она вошла в курс дела новой работы на этой фирме)

I’ll try to get onto the manager.

(Я попытаюсь связаться с менеджером)

get out – уходить, уезжать, убираться, сваливать, проваливать (of – из, от); также совет, приказ; выходить, вылезать

Sally is so sad that she doesn’t want to get out tonight.

(Салли так грустно, что она не хочет никуда выходить сегодня вечером)

You won’t be able to get out of this problem easily.

(Тебе не получится избежать этой проблемы так просто)

«Get out,» — he said.

(“Убирайся,” — сказал он)

get something out of – вынимать, вытаскивать, извлекать, убрать что-либо или кого-либо откуда-либо

Do you seriously think you’ll get something out of selling your car?

(Ты действительно думаешь, что у тебя получится что-то извлечь из продажи своего автомобиля?)

get over – преодолевать трудности, справиться; понять

I’ll get over it.

(Я переживу это)

Ben could get over his fear of flying and took a plane to Spain.

(Бен смог преодолеть свой страх высоты и сел на самолет до Испании)

get over — перейти, перелезть, переправиться (через); пойти, поехать, добраться (до)

You better get over here right away.

(Ты лучше приезжай сюда немедленно)

get over with – закончить что-л., разобраться с (быстро и окончательно)

Let’s get this over with.

(Давайте поскорее с этим закончим)

The kids are trying to get the homework over with so they can play.

(Дети пытаются поскорее закончить домашнюю работу, чтобы поиграть)

I can’t get over something — не могу свыкнуться, никак не могу поверить

I can’t get over how much your kids have grown.

(Никак не могу поверить тому, как твои дети выросли)

get rid of — избавить от чего-либо

Jim should get rid of those awful friends of his.

(Джиму следует избавиться от своих ужасных друзей)

get round — уговорить; распространить (о слухах)

I will call Elizabeth and get round her to come.

(Я позвоню Элизабет и уговорю ее прийти)

I can’t believe the newspaper got round such morbid information about her.

(Не могу поверить, что газеты распространили такую отвратительную информацию о ней)

get through — закончить, завершить; выдержать (экзамен), выживать

You must study if you want to get through that Maths exam.

(Ты должен учиться, если хочешь сдать этот экзамен по математике)

I got through the whole book in two days. It’s fascinating!

(Я закончил книгу целиком за два дня. Она очень увлекательна!)

It’s been very hard for Kelly to get through her divorce.

(Келли было тяжело выдержать развод)

get through to somebody — связаться

Teenagers are generally hard to get through to.

(До подростков обычно очень тяжело достучаться)

I had trouble getting through to you because my phone had bad reception.

(Мне было сложно до тебя дозвониться из-за того, что была плохая связь)

get through to something — дойти до чего-либо, достигнуть чего-либо

Alex’s team won the match and so they got through to the final.

(Команда Алекса выиграла матч, и, таким образом, они попали в финал)

get through with – разобраться с кем-либо, чем-либо

Wait till I get through with you, your own mother won’t recognize you!

(Погоди, я с тобой так разберусь, мать родная не узнает!)

get to — попасть, подеваться

Where the telephone has got to? I need to make an important call.

(Куда подевался телефон? Мне нужно сделать важный звонок)

get to somebody — дойти до кого-либо, подействовать на кого-либо; достать, доканать кого-либо

Tim’s constant complaining finally got to Peg and so she left him.

(Постоянные жалобы Тима под конец доконали Пэг, и она его бросила)

get to something — приниматься за что-либо

You should get to work instead of staying there watching TV.

(Тебе следует приняться за работу вместо того, чтобы смотреть телефизор)

get together — взять себя в руки

Get yourself together or we will have to leave the bar.

(Возьми себя в руки, или нам придется уйти из бара)

get something together — собрать, накопить

I’m trying to get together these papers, I can’t stand this mess.

(Я пытаюсь собрать эти бумаги. Терпеть не могу этот беспорядок)

get together (with somebody) — встретиться, собираться; начать встречаться (о близких отношениях)

We should all get together one day and go out for a drink!

(Нам стоит собраться однажды и пойти выпить)

Paul and Sue got together last week. They’re in love!

(Пол и Сью начали встречаться на прошлой неделе. Они влюблены друг в друга!)

get up — подниматься, вставать (после сна)

When I was in school, we had to get up if a teacher entered the classroom.

(Когда я был в школе, мы должны были вставать с места, если учитель заходил в кабинет)

I hate getting up early.

(Я ненавижу вставать рано утром)

get up – будить кого-либо

Get me up at six.

(Разбуди меня в шесть)

get up – одевать, наряжать, гримировать кого-либо

Mary got herself up in a nice new dress.

(Мэри надела свое милое новое платье)

Rachel got herself up as Queen Elizabeth I for Peter’s birthday.

(Рейчел нарядилась королевой Елизаветой I на день рождения Питера)

get something up — готовить, оформлять, организовывать

We’re getting up a birthday party for Thomas, we’d like you to come.

(Мы готовим вечеринку на день рождения Томаса. И хотим, чтобы ты пришел)

to get up to — догнать, добраться, дойти

I couldn’t finish the test, I only got up to the sixth question.

(Я не смог закончить тест, я дошел только до шестого вопроса)

to get up to — отмочить (сделать что-л. странное, невероятное), замышлять что-то

You know what he got up to last night? He threw the TV out the window!

(Ты знаешь, что он вчера отмочил? Он выбросил телевизор в окно.)

The kids are quiet. They’re getting up to something.

(Дети ведут себя тихо. Они что-то замышляют)

get up – усиливаться (о пожаре, ветре, чувствах)

The wind was getting up and we decided to go home.

(Ветер усиливался, и мы решили вернуться домой)

get up – испытывать (чувство)

I doubt if I shall ever get up any keenness for the game again.

Я сомневаюсь, что у меня когда-нибудь снова появится игровой азарт.

© Ландыш

Get is basically the most common verb in the English language. Native English speakers often use get phrases in place of more formal phrases in daily conversations. So the more you integrate get phrases into the way you speak and write when you’re learning English, the sooner you’ll start to sound like a native speaker.

While this list is by no means exhaustive, it will most certainly bring you a huge step forward for advancing your English skills. Below is a list of common phrases with “get” and related example sentences for context.

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Get + adjective

Get + adjective	Example sentence
Get angry	The bull gets angry when it sees red.
Get hot	I get hot when the temperature is above 30 degrees.
Get lost	I got lost when I traveled to London.
Get hungry	I got hungry when I smelled the cookies baking.
Get dark	It gets dark when the sun goes down.
Get dirty	Their shoes got dirty when they played in the mud.
Get hurt	He got hurt when they had a fight.
Get bored	I got bored with playing the game.
Get rich	She got rich when she won the lottery.
Get confused	He got confused when he looked at the map.
Get married	They got married 6 months after their engagement.
Get divorced	The couple was unhappy so they got divorced.
Get excited	I get excited when I know I’ll be on holiday soon.
Get nervous	She got nervous before she gave the presentation.
Get dressed	I get dressed before I go to work.

Get + comparative

Get + comparative	Example sentence
Get better	I got better when I took some medicine.
Get worse	I got worse when I stood in the cold.
Get deeper	The water gets deeper when you swim further out.
Get more important	It’s getting more important to learn English.
Get more expensive	It has gotten more expensive to buy a car lately.
Get safer	It has gotten safer to buy things online.

Get + a place (to arrive)

Get + a place (to arrive)	Example sentence
Get there	I want to get there before nightfall.
Get home	I got home after taking the bus.
Get to the store	They got to the store and went shopping.
Get to the bus	When she got to the bus stop, she realized she forgot her keys.
Get to work	My manager gets to work at 8am every day.
Get to school	They got to school just before the bell rang.

Get (buy/obtain)

Get (buy/obtain)	Example sentence
Get a job	I got a new job last week.
Get a dress	I got this dress at the mall.
Get a flat	We finally got a flat after searching for months.
Get a puppy	He got a new puppy from the shelter.

Get (receive)

Get (receive)	Example sentence
Get an email	I got an email that my appointment was rescheduled.
Get an award	She got an award for her good grades.
Get a package	They got a package from the postman.
Get a present	I got a present for my birthday.
Get a phone call	The businessman got a phone call from his client.

Get + preposition (phrasal verbs)

Get + preposition (phrasal verbs)	Example sentence
Get up	I get up at 7am every day.
Get back	He needs to get back to the office after lunch.
Get through	You’ll get through it in time.
Get along	The siblings never got along.
Get over	He wanted to get over his difficult past.
Get away	We went on holiday to get away for awhile.
Get out	You need to get out of the house and take a break.
Get at	I don’t understand what you’re getting at.
Get by	We don’t have enough money to get by this month.
Get off	She needs to get off the train at the next station.

Get collocations

Get collocations	Example sentence
Get permission	The students need to get permission to go on the field trip.
Get a degree	He got a degree in Chemistry.
Get the impression	I’m getting the impression that you don’t understand me.
Get a haircut	She got a new haircut.
Get a tan	He got a tan at the beach.
Get nowhere	We’re getting nowhere with these failed results.
Get help	His friend recommended that he needed to get help.
Get the sack	The lazy employee got the sack from his manager.
Get used to	You’ll get used to speaking English over time.
Get started	We’ll get started with the project next week.

So, there you have it. Now you just need to put the theory into practice and start using these phrases with “get”.

The following idioms and expressions use the verb ‘get’. Each idiom or expression has a definition and two example sentences to help understanding of these common idiomatic expressions with ‘get’. Once you have studied these expressions, test your knowledge with quiz testing idioms and expressions with get.

Get someone’s drift

Definition: understand what someone has said

Do you get his drift?
I don’t get his drift. Does he think I should quit?

Get a bang / kick out of someone or something

Definition: enjoy someone or something greatly

I really get a bang out of Tom!
She got a kick out of the new video game.

Get a life!

Definition: Don’t worry about such stupid, or petty things

Come on. Get a life! Go out and have some fun.
I wish Janet would get a life. She’s always complaining about nothing.

Get a load off one’s feet

Definition: sit down, relax

Come on get a load off your feet.
Come over here and get a load off your feet.

Get a load off one’s mind

Definition: stop worrying about something

I’m glad he got the job. I’m sure he’s got a load off his mind.
That news gets a load off my mind.

Get a load of someone or something

Definition: take notice of someone or something

Get a load of that boy over there!
Get a load of this book. It’s excellent!

Get a toehold

Definition: To begin a relationship with a person or company

I got a toehold at Smiths and Sons.
He’s trying to get a toehold with Jason.

Get away!

Definition: I don’t believe you

He didn’t say that! Get away!
No, get away! That’s can’t be true.

To get down on someone

Definition: criticize someone

Don’t get so down on Janet.
My boss is getting down on me.

Get down to doing something

Definition: begin to do something seriously

Let’s get down to business.
I got down to doing the report yesterday afternoon.

Get face

Definition: be taken seriously

He’s really beginning to get face in that company.
I wish I could get face.

To get in someone’s face

Definition: to annoy or provoke someone

Why don’t you get in his face!
Tim really got in the coach’s face.

To get in on the act

Definition: become a part of something interesting

I really wish I could get in on the act.
Would you like to get in on the act at work?

Get into something

Definition: enjoy greatly

He’s really getting into that new CD by Japlin.
I got into the movie last night.

Get it

Definition: understand

Do you get it?
He got it and began having success.

Get lost!

Definition: go away

Come on, get lost!
I wish Tom would get lost.

Get off on something

Definition: enjoy greatly

He’s really getting off on jazz these days.
Do you get off on cult movies?

Get one’s act together

Definition: become organized about something

I wish Mary would get her act together.
Yes, I got my act together and found a new job.

Get one’s lumps

Definition: receive punishment

She got her lumps for disobeying her parents.
I shouldn’t have done that. Now I’m getting my lumps.

Get one’s nose out of joint

Definition: become upset about something

He got his nose out of joint about the new employee.
Don’t get your nose out of joint. It’s not that bad!

Get one’s teeth into something

Definition: do something with a lot of dedication

I’m getting my teeth into the new project at work.
I think you are going to get your teeth into this book.

Get on someone’s case

Definition: to criticize someone about a problem

Stop getting on my case about homework.
My boss is getting on my case about the project.

Get out of my face!

Definition: stop bothering me

Get out of my face! I’m going to do it!
She told him to get out of her face.

Get real!

Definition: start acting realistically

Get real about her.
Forget it. Get real.

Get someone’s goat.

Definition: bother someone

She’s getting his goat recently.
Tom is really getting my goat.

Get some shut-eye

Definition: go to sleep

I need to go home and get some shut-eye.
He looks like he needs to get some shut-eye.

Get the goods on someone

Definition: find out incriminating evidence against someone

Janet got the goods on him and they are getting divorced.
I can’t wait to get the goods on Jack.

Get the lead out!

Definition: hurry up

Come on! Get the load out!
Let’s get out of here. Get the lead out!

Get the message / picture

Definition: understand

So do you get the picture?
I don’t think he gets the message.

Get the nod

Definition: be chosen

Peter got the nod for the job.
I think Mary should get the nod.

Get to someone

Definition: bother someone

Tom is really getting to Mary.
Motor scooter noise gets to me!

Get with it

Definition: hurry up

Get with it. We’re late.
I wish Tom would get with it.

Every language has one of those words that you hear all the time, but it’s used in so many different ways that it can be really confusing. In most cases, the translation of this word doesn’t make any sense, or you wouldn’t use this word the same way in your native tongue. In this video article we’re going to learn about one of the English language’s most commonly misused and often misunderstood words, GET.

GETTING TO KNOW GET

The word “get” always leaves people in doubt, and it can be very frustrating for the average English learner. The problem is that their are so many expressions and phrasal verbs that use the word “get” that it can be very confusing. Let’s take a look at some literal meanings.

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6 Uses of the Word ‘Get’

The word “get” is so commonly used as a substitute for many words. A lot of the time when we use “get” it makes it less formal and it’s a lot more common in spoken English. Here are some examples of the 5 most common substitutions.

GET = BECOME (before adjectives)

When used before an adjective, the word get is a common substitution for the word become. This means that you are starting to become that adjective.

• If you don’t eat now you will get hungry later
• He got really angry when I told him I was leaving
• she is getting really skinny

GET = ARRIVE 

The word arrive sounds formal when used in conversation. Arrive would be commonly used at airports/ travel arrangements or in a serious business setting. In normal situations we tend to use “get”.

• What time did you get there?
• I’ll ring him when we get to the park

GET=RECEIVE 

This is a common mistake amongst Brazilians. Usually a Brazilian would use the word, “win” (Ganhar) in this case. In English “win” would only be used in regards to a prize or a competition/game.

• I got some cool presents for my birthday
• I got an email from my friend in Australia
• She always gets paid on Thursday

GET = OBTAIN/BUY 

The word “buy” is used when you’re specifying the fact that you purchased something. If that’s not so important we substitute it for our good friend “get.”

• I got a new suit to wear to the conference.
• They got their instruments from the U.S.A.

GET = UNDERSTAND 

This is simply an alternative way to say understand. You will here this more so in informal conversation but it doesn’t sound rude or inappropriate if it is used in a formal setting.

• Do you get what I’m saying?
• I don’t get it/ Got it!

GET = FETCH

In other words this meaning of “get” is when you leave where you are to collect (fetch) something and come back. A lot of people use the word take in this case which would be incorrect.

• Can you get me a glass of water?
•  I’m going to get her from work.
• I’m going out to get some milk.

Expressions with GET

These are some of the most common, out of many. For more a more extensive list of expressions with “get”, check out this link http://www.wordreference.com/enpt/get To get along with- to have a good relationship with someone or a group of people.

• I get along really well with my co-workers
• He doesn’t get along with his in-laws

To get over something-  to no longer feel bad, frustrated, or sad about something.

• I’m getting over the chicken pox
• He’s still getting over his bad break up with his girlfriend

To get rid of-  to be relieved of something in you life by giving it to someone or throwing it away

• I’m trying to get rid of my old car but no one wants to buy it
• The boss got rid of all the unnecessary office equipment

To get to know someone- to be in the phase of learning about a person and becoming friends with them; to be starting to know all about a person, city, or even a product or service.

• I would really like to get to know your sister
• I’m getting to know the city really well
• I should start getting to know how to use this program

To get by- to be able to survive with the limited supply or knowledge of something that you have.

• I make just enough money to get by
• My Spanish isn’t so good but I can get by

So now that you know the uses of the word get, go out and put it to test. Try identifying the different uses of get while watching a movie, T.V. show or listening to some music or podcasts. Hopefully you will start to get how we use get little better, take advantage of all the online English resources and get excited about learning. That’s enough “gets” for one day, If you have any questions or feedback feel free to comment. Until we meet again Real Life English readers.

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The word ‘get’ is one of the most common and versatile verbs in English. It can be used in lots of different ways, and is usually seen in informal writing or speaking. You can use the word ‘get’ on its own, with a preposition to make a phrasal verb, or with a participle in the passive voice.

Now we’re going to look at some of these uses in more detail. So, let’s get started!

1. Get = to obtain, to receive, to buy

The word ‘get’ can be used as a verb to express the actions of obtaining, receiving or buying. To form a sentence, we use get + direct object or get + indirect object + object.

Let’s take a look at some examples. Don’t forget ‘get’ is an irregular verb, so when we use the past simple we change (or conjugate) to ‘got’

To obtain

 

To receive

 

To buy

 

2. Get = to reach, to arrive

We can use ‘get’ when talking about arriving or reaching a place, to express movement or travel. To form a sentence, we use get + place expression. After the word ‘get’, we also normally use the preposition ‘to’.

To reach

 

To arrive

 

3. Get = to become

‘Get’ is also used to express a change of state or situation. To form a sentence, we use get + adjective.

To become

 

4. Get as a phrasal verb

‘Get’ can be used in phrasal verbs, which have various meanings. To form a sentence, use get + preposition/adverb. Here are a handful of common examples:

 

5. Get in the passive

We can also use the word ‘get’ in the passive form. Here it is used in place of the verb ‘to be’ to sound more informal. So, instead of using the standard passive be + participle, we can also use get + participle. For example:

 

We use the passive form when we want to emphasize the nature of the event, or the people involved instead of who does the action. For example:

 

‘Get’ is also very commonly used to describe negative events. For example:

 

6. Get something done

Our final use of the word get is a more informal way of saying ‘to have something done’ for us or to us. This is normally when we pay for some kind of service – such as at the hairdresser, mechanic or dentist. To form a sentence, we use the structure get + object + past participle.

To get something done

 

Enjoy this post? Check out our blog post: 10 phrasal verbs to help you become an English expert.

Glossary for Language Learners

Find the following words in the article and then write down any new ones you didn’t know.

Versatile (adj): able to be used for lots of different purposes.

Get started (exp): to begin.

Hairdresser (n): the place where you go for a haircut.

Key

adj = adjective

exp = adverb

n = noun

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Get is a power word in the English language.

There are so many different meanings. This might be confusing for you as an English learner. But it’s important to learn how to use this word.

In this lesson, you’re going to learn 10 of the most common ways this word is used. And then, I’m also going to share some idioms with you.

The key to all of this is to learn the sentences. That way, you will internalize this word and how to use it. Learn more about to do that at the bottom of the post.

For now, watch the video and then take the lesson below.

10 Ways to Use the Word GET in English

Here are the ways in which we use get in English. Read the definitions and the examples. And then, see the collocations and idioms too.

Gain possession of / buy

Look behind me. Recently, I got some new things for my office. I got these *cough* fake plants, neon light, wall decorations… this means that I bought these things. Here are more examples:

• What did you get for your birthday?
• I’m thinking about getting a new car soon.
• I haven’t got my wife anything for Christmas yet – I’m starting to panic!

To become ill or have an illness

Yes, you can say catch a cold but it’s more common to say get a cold. Here are more examples:

• I’ve got a cold
• She keeps getting sick
• I’ve got a bit of a headache today.

Click here to learn more about sickness vocabulary. Or watch below:

To obtain and/or bring something to someone

This is something that is used a lot at home. For example:

• Could you get me a tea?
• Could you get me the remote?
• If you have time, get me some bananas on your way home (first conditional)
• Get some breakfast and then we’ll go

An alternative here is to bring up or down. For example, could you bring me up a cup of tea?

To hear or to understand

Listen to this: Time flies like an arrow, but fruit flies like a banana. You can respond to that by saying, “I’m sorry. I didn’t quite get that.”

• I don’t get what you mean. Could you explain that again?
• I didn’t quite get that – could you speak up?

To become (change)

This is really useful. Look at this example:

• It’s getting dark

It’s not dark now but it’s changing from light to dark. We use get to talk about a change.

• Your tea’s going getting cold. I’d drink it now*
• It’s getting hot out there
• Yawn. I’m getting tired.

*My wife and I talk about PDT: perfect drinking temperature. This is when the tea isn’t too hot and it’s too cold. It’s just right.

To learn more about how to talk about the weather, click here.

Movement

A good example of this is this one:

• What’s wrong with you? Why are you hobbling?
• I stubbed my toe getting into bed.

Here are more examples:

• Get down!
• Get your hands out of your pockets.
• I stubbed my toe getting into bed
• Let’s get outside – it’s beautiful out there

To leave public transport

After you get on a train you… get off it.

• Let’s get off here
• Where do we get off if we’re going to Big Ben?
• Get off at the next stop

This can be a little confusing. Because you get out of a car but get off a train. You get in the car but on a train.

This is why it’s important to learn English through sentences. And if you want to get audio sentences from this lesson – along with flashcards and many other resources – join TFP.

Arrive

Now speaking of traveling, when you arrive at your destination, you can use get here too.

• When is David going to get here?
• When mum gets here, turn off the TV, okay?
• Come on, let’s get going, we’ll get there really late otherwise.
• I hope my package gets here today.

To Receive or Be Given Something

• Let me know what you get in that quiz
• I got my hair cut yesterday – what do you think?
• I got my acceptance letter yesterday!

Collocations with Get

Collocations are simply two or more words that go together naturally. For example, you take a quick shower not a fast shower.

Now, some of the following can be explained through rules, but it’s important to learn them more naturally. To internalize them and to be able to use them instantly during natural conversation.

With that in mind, here are some of the more common collocations with get:

Get Married

This means to be joined in marriage. Notice the difference between to be married and to get married from the following examples:

• They got married last year
• They’re married

The first one talks about the act of getting married. The second focuses on the situation. Here are more examples:

• When are you going to get married?
• We’re getting married next year

That last example is in the present continuous. We use the present continuous to talk about future events.

Get Ready

There are two definitions here. Firstly, it can mean to put on clothes. For example, come on, get ready. We have to leave soon. Here are more examples:

• It takes her forever to get ready
• How long does it take you to get ready?
• I’m getting ready – almost done!

It can also mean prepare. Imagine that you’re throwing a party for the World Cup Final. You might say, we need to get the house ready for our party. Here are more examples:

• Can you get the presentation ready for tomorrow?
• Get ready… this is going to be a tough exam.

Get home/in

Before, you learned that we use get when we arrive somewhere. To get home is a good example of this:

• Come on, let’s get home
• What time did you get in last night?
• Is he getting home tonight?

Get some/any sleep/rest

Let’s get home and get some rest. This just means to sleep or to rest. We often use some/any in between get and sleep/rest. Here are more examples:

• I just need to get some sleep
• Do you think we’ll get any rest next week?
• I didn’t get any sleep last night

Get into trouble

Look at this example: He’s always getting into trouble! This means that he’s always misbehaving and either their parents, the police, or their teachers are punishing them.

Here are more examples:

• He got into a lot of trouble as a kid but he’s good now
• Try not to get into trouble tomorrow!
• What can we do to stop you from getting into trouble?

This can also mean to fall into difficulty.

• If you get into any trouble when traveling, call me straight away!
• We got into some financial trouble last year but we managed to get out of it.

Idioms with the Word Get

There are many idioms that include get. Let’s have a look at some of these now.

Get to the bottom of something

This means to discover the truth about something – often when the truth is hidden or hard to find.

It’s used in formal situations, mainly. For example, if things have gone missing at a school but no one knows why, the principal might say: we need to get to the bottom of this.

More examples are:

• The police are trying to get to the bottom of who committed that crime
• Let’s get to the bottom of this, ASAP

Get the hang of

This means to learn how to do something. For example, it didn’t take me long to get the hang of driving on the right side of the road. Or the wrong side…

• It might take you a little time to get the hang of how to use get but if you follow my methods you’ll definitely get there
• I just can’t get the hang of it

Get a kick out of something

To enjoy something – to find something amusing.

• Are you getting a kick out of me falling over?
• I still get a kick out of Blackpool losing

Over to You

There’s a lot to learn in this lesson. Knowing how to use GET can help. But the key to being able to use these sentences naturally, flexibly and fluently when speaking is to repeat the phrases until you memorize them.

That is where my program can help. You can get premium resources based on this lesson here. We’d love to have you!

Thank you for reading. Please share this lesson below!