30.5. Common Phrasal Verbs: Phrasal Verbs with 'Get'

Phrasal verbs are an essential part of the English language, especially when it comes to achieving fluency at an intermediate level. They are combinations of verbs with one or more particles (prepositions or adverbs) that create a meaning different from the original verb. Among the most frequently used phrasal verbs are those formed with the verb "get." Understanding and mastering these can significantly enhance your ability to communicate effectively in English. In this text, we will delve into some common phrasal verbs with "get," providing examples and explanations to help you grasp their usage.

Get Up

"Get up" is a phrasal verb commonly used to describe the action of rising from a bed or a seated position. It is often associated with waking up in the morning.

• Example: I usually get up at 7 a.m. on weekdays.
• Explanation: Here, "get up" means to rise from bed to start the day.

Get Over

"Get over" is used to express the process of recovering from an illness, a setback, or an emotional experience.

• Example: It took her a while to get over the flu.
• Explanation: In this context, "get over" means to recover from an illness.

Get By

"Get by" refers to managing to survive or continue despite difficulties, often with limited resources.

• Example: They don't earn much, but they manage to get by.
• Explanation: "Get by" here means to survive or make do with what is available.

Get Along

"Get along" is used to describe having a good relationship with someone.

• Example: I get along well with my colleagues.
• Explanation: This means having a harmonious or friendly relationship.

Get Away

"Get away" can mean to escape or to take a break from routine, often for a vacation.

• Example: We plan to get away to the countryside this weekend.
• Explanation: Here, "get away" refers to taking a break or vacation.

Get In

"Get in" is used to describe entering a place, vehicle, or arriving at a destination.

• Example: What time did you get in last night?
• Explanation: In this case, "get in" means to arrive at a place.

Get Out

"Get out" means to leave a place or to escape from a situation.

• Example: It's too crowded here; let's get out.
• Explanation: "Get out" here means to leave a place.

Get Off

"Get off" is used when leaving a vehicle, such as a bus or train, or removing an object from something.

• Example: Please get off the bus at the next stop.
• Explanation: Here, "get off" means to leave the bus.

Get On

"Get on" refers to boarding a vehicle or continuing with something.

• Example: We need to get on the train before it leaves.
• Explanation: In this context, "get on" means to board the train.

Get Through

"Get through" means to successfully complete something or to make contact via phone.

• Example: I finally got through to customer service after waiting for 20 minutes.
• Explanation: Here, "get through" means to successfully make contact.

Get Across

"Get across" is used to convey an idea or make something understood.

• Example: She was able to get her point across during the meeting.
• Explanation: "Get across" means to communicate an idea effectively.

Get Back

"Get back" can mean to return to a place or to regain something lost.

• Example: When did you get back from your trip?
• Explanation: In this example, "get back" means to return from a trip.

Get Together

"Get together" refers to meeting or gathering with others.

• Example: Let's get together for lunch sometime.
• Explanation: Here, "get together" means to meet with someone.

Get Ahead

"Get ahead" means to progress or succeed, especially in one's career.

• Example: She worked hard to get ahead in her career.
• Explanation: "Get ahead" in this context means to advance professionally.

Get Down

"Get down" can mean to descend or to feel sad or depressed.

• Example: Don't let bad weather get you down.
• Explanation: Here, "get down" refers to feeling sad or discouraged.

Get Around

"Get around" means to travel or move from place to place, often with ease.

• Example: In the city, it's easy to get around using public transport.
• Explanation: "Get around" here means to navigate or travel within an area.

Get Back At

"Get back at" is used for taking revenge or retaliating against someone.

• Example: He wanted to get back at her for the prank she pulled.
• Explanation: "Get back at" means to seek revenge.

Get Into

"Get into" can mean to become involved in an activity or to enter a place.

• Example: She's really gotten into yoga lately.
• Explanation: In this context, "get into" means to become interested or involved in yoga.

Understanding these phrasal verbs with "get" will greatly enhance your communication skills in English. They are versatile and can be used in various contexts to express different ideas and actions. Practice using them in sentences, and pay attention to how native speakers incorporate them into everyday conversation. With time, these phrasal verbs will become a natural part of your vocabulary, helping you to express yourself more fluently and accurately in English.

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36Common Phrasal Verbs: Phrasal Verbs with 'Take'

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