get 
/ˈgɛt/ verb
gets; got /ˈgɛt/ verb /ˈgɑ:t/; got or US got·ten /ˈgɑ:tn̩/; get·ting 1 [+ obj] : to obtain (something): such as a : to receive or be given (something)
▪ He got a new bicycle for his birthday. ▪ I never did get an answer to my question. ▪ I got a letter from my lawyer. ▪ She got a phone call from her sister. ▪ Did you get my message? ▪ Can I get [=catch] a ride to town with you? [=will you give me a ride to town?] ▪ You need to get your mother's permission to go.
b : to obtain (something) through effort, chance, etc.
▪ She hasn't been able to get a job. ▪ It's nearly impossible to get [=make] a reservation at that restaurant. ▪ If you want to be successful you need to get a good education. ▪ It took us a while to get the waiter's attention. ▪ She got a look at the thief. [=she managed to look at the thief]
c : to obtain the use or services of (something)
▪ It took us a while to get a taxi. ▪ It's hard to get good help these days.
d : to earn or gain (something)
▪ How much does he get [=make] a week? ▪ I got $50 when I sold my old bicycle. = I got $50 for my old bicycle. ▪ He's gotten a bad reputation (for himself). = He's gotten himself a bad reputation. ▪ I got an “A” on my history exam!
e : to win (something)
▪ She got first prize in the essay contest. 2 [+ obj] : to buy or pay for (something)
▪ He got (himself) a new car at a great price. ▪ “Did you get that dress at the mall?” “Yes, and I got it for only $20.” ▪ Do you get [=subscribe to] the local newspaper? ▪ I'll get the next round of drinks. ▪ He offered to get the check, but I insisted on getting it myself. ▪ He got a beautiful necklace for his wife. = He got his wife a beautiful necklace. 3 [+ obj] : to go somewhere and come back with (something or someone)
▪ I'll get a pencil from the desk. ▪ Can I get anything for you? = Can I get you anything? ▪ Someone has to (go) get the boss from the airport and bring her back here. 4 [+ obj] : to send or take (something or someone) to a person or place
▪ I have to get an important message to her at once! ▪ We have to get him to the hospital immediately. 5 a always followed by an adverb or preposition [+ obj] : to cause (someone or something) to move or go
▪ He quickly got himself and his luggage through customs. ▪ She got the car out of the garage. ▪ I could barely get [=fit] the luggage into the car's trunk. ▪ I can't get this ring on/off my finger.
b always followed by an adverb or preposition [no obj] : to move or go
▪ He got on the horse and rode away. ▪ We got on/off the bus. ▪ They quickly got [=passed] through customs. ▪ She never got out of the house last weekend. ▪ He lost weight to be able to get [=fit] into his jeans again. ▪ He got between them to keep them from fighting. ▪ Ouch! Get off my foot!
c always followed by an adverb [no obj] : to arrive at a place
▪ When did you get here/there? ▪ He got home last night. 6 [+ obj] : to begin to have (a feeling, an idea, etc.)
▪ I got a funny feeling when I saw her again. ▪ He somehow got the idea that I was lying to him. ▪ I got the impression that he wasn't interested. ▪ One thing led to another, and—well, you get the picture/idea. [=you can easily guess the rest] 7 [+ obj] a : to become affected by (a disease)
▪ I got a bad cold when I was on vacation. ▪ Clean the wound carefully so you don't get an infection.
b : to suffer (an injury)
▪ He got a broken nose in a fight. ▪ Where/how did you get that bruise on your leg? 8 [+ obj] : to have or experience (something)
▪ We've been getting a lot of rain recently. ▪ I finally got a good night's sleep last night. [=I finally slept well last night] ▪ The inn doesn't get many visitors these days. ▪ “Do people often ask if you're Irish?” “Yes, I get that a lot.” [=people ask me that often] ▪ You get [=there are] so many crazy drivers these days. 9 [+ obj] : to cause (a particular reaction)
▪ That joke always gets a laugh. ▪ Her comments got an angry reaction. 10 always followed by an adverb a [no obj] : to make progress in some activity
▪ He hasn't gotten far with the essay. [=he hasn't made much progress with the essay] ▪ You won't get anywhere with flattery. [=you won't succeed by using flattery] ▪ At last we're getting somewhere (with our work)! — see also get ahead (below)
b [+ obj] : to cause or help (someone) to make progress
▪ All that effort didn't really get us very far. ▪ Flattery will get you nowhere. = Flattery won't get you anywhere. 11 [+ obj] : to cause (someone or something) to be in a specified position or condition
▪ He got his feet wet when he stepped in a puddle. ▪ He got his nose broken in a fight. [=his nose was broken in a fight] ▪ I told you not to get yourself dirty. ▪ You nearly got us both killed! ▪ I need to get [=have] my hair cut. ▪ She finally got her office organized. ▪ He promised to get the work done quickly. [=to do the work quickly] ▪ When you're making a measurement be careful to get it right. [=to do it correctly] ▪ Let me get this straight [=let me be sure that I understand this correctly]: are you saying that you won't help us? 12 [+ obj] : to cause (someone or something) to do something — usually followed by to + verb ▪ I can't get the children to behave. ▪ How can I get you to understand that this isn't a good idea? ▪ He got the computer to work again. — sometimes + -ing verb ▪ He got the computer working again. 13 [no obj] : to start doing something
▪ We got talking about old times. — see also get to 1a (below) 14 [no obj] : to have or be given the chance to do something : to be able to do something
▪ She never got to go to college. ▪ Why do I never get to drive the car? ▪ She hopes she'll finally get to spend more time working on her garden this year. 15 [+ obj] : to deal with (something that needs attention): such as a : to answer (a telephone)
▪ Would somebody please get the phone?
b : to open (a door)
▪ If you'll get the door for me, I'll carry that box inside. ▪ There's someone at the door. Would you please get it? [=open the door and deal with the person who knocked] 16 [+ obj] a : to understand (something or someone)
▪ I just don't get the point of what you're saying. ▪ He didn't get the joke. ▪ I don't get what you mean. ▪ Oh, now I get it. [=understand] ▪ He's a strange guy. I just don't get him. ▪ Don't get me wrong. [=don't misunderstand what I am saying] ▪ I get your drift. [=I understand what you are saying]
b : to hear and understand (something)
▪ I didn't quite get [=catch] his name. 17 a [linking verb] : become 1
▪ My hands got dirty when I was working in the garden. ▪ I get very nervous when I have to speak in public. ▪ I got sick last week but I'm feeling better now. ▪ I just can't get used to this cold weather. ▪ She sent her sick friend a “Get Well Soon” card. ▪ I should go; it's getting late. ▪ (Brit, informal) Your daughter's getting quite a big girl now! ▪ We need to finish by 5 o'clock, so we'd better get busy. [=begin to work] ▪ You've never heard of the Internet? Come on, now. Get with it. [=become up-to-date in your knowledge] ◊People say how stupid/lucky (etc.) can you get to mean that someone or something is unusually stupid, lucky, etc.
▪ He tried to rob a policeman. How stupid can you get? [=he was very stupid to try to rob a policeman] ▪ Just look at that dress! How tacky can you get? [=that dress is very tacky]
b [no obj] : to change in a specified way as time passes — followed by to + verb ▪ Your daughter is getting to be [=is becoming] quite a big girl now! 18 [no obj] : to do something specified — followed by to + verb ▪ Once you get to know him, you will like him. 19 [auxiliary verb] — used like be with the past participle of some verbs to form passive constructions ▪ They got [=were] married last month. ▪ He got [=was] paid for his work. ▪ She got arrested for fraud. ▪ I nearly got killed. 20 [+ obj] a : to have (a meal)
▪ We got dinner at an Italian restaurant last night.
b : to prepare (a meal)
▪ On weekends, my wife sleeps late while I get breakfast. 21 [+ obj] : to receive (punishment)
▪ He got five years in prison for his crime. ▪ (informal) If you don't stop misbehaving you're going to get it when your father gets home! [=your father is going to punish you] 22 [+ obj] : to grip and hold (something or someone)
▪ The dog got the thief by the leg. ▪ He got [=grabbed] me around/by the neck and wouldn't let go. 23 [+ obj] : to find and catch (someone)
▪ The Royal Canadian Mounted Police always get their man! [=they always capture the man they are trying to capture] 24 [+ obj] : to hit (someone)
▪ The bullet got him in the leg. 25 [+ obj] a : to hurt or cause trouble for (someone)
▪ He's convinced that his ex-wife is out to get him. ▪ I'll get you if it's the last thing I do!
b : to cause the death of (someone)
▪ He had heart problems for many years, but it was pneumonia that got him in the end. 26 [+ obj] informal a : to bother or annoy (someone)
▪ It really gets me that such a foolish man has so much influence. ▪ What gets me is all these delays! — see also get to 2a (below)
b : to make (someone) sad
▪ The end of that movie always gets me. — see also get to 2b (below)
c : to cause (someone) to be fooled or unable to think of an answer
▪ Well, you got [=fooled, tricked] me that time. That was very clever. ▪ That's a good question. You've got me (there). [=I don't know the answer] 27 [+ obj] : to make a phone call and hear or speak to (a person or answering machine)
▪ Where were you? I've been trying to get [=reach] you (on the phone) all day! ▪ When I tried to call him I got his answering machine. [=the phone was answered by his answering machine] 28 [+ obj] : to receive (a radio or TV station or channel)
▪ We don't get this channel at home. 29 [+ obj] : to produce or provide (a level of performance)
▪ Our new car gets [=delivers] excellent gas mileage. 30 [+ obj] informal : to notice (someone or something)
▪ Did you get the way he looked at you? — often used to direct someone's attention to a person or thing that is seen as foolish, surprising, etc. ▪ Just get him in his new pants! ▪ She showed up at the party in—get this—a $3,000 designer dress!
▪ He got a new bicycle for his birthday. ▪ I never did get an answer to my question. ▪ I got a letter from my lawyer. ▪ She got a phone call from her sister. ▪ Did you get my message? ▪ Can I get [=catch] a ride to town with you? [=will you give me a ride to town?] ▪ You need to get your mother's permission to go.
b : to obtain (something) through effort, chance, etc.
▪ She hasn't been able to get a job. ▪ It's nearly impossible to get [=make] a reservation at that restaurant. ▪ If you want to be successful you need to get a good education. ▪ It took us a while to get the waiter's attention. ▪ She got a look at the thief. [=she managed to look at the thief]
c : to obtain the use or services of (something)
▪ It took us a while to get a taxi. ▪ It's hard to get good help these days.
d : to earn or gain (something)
▪ How much does he get [=make] a week? ▪ I got $50 when I sold my old bicycle. = I got $50 for my old bicycle. ▪ He's gotten a bad reputation (for himself). = He's gotten himself a bad reputation. ▪ I got an “A” on my history exam!
e : to win (something)
▪ She got first prize in the essay contest.
▪ He got (himself) a new car at a great price. ▪ “Did you get that dress at the mall?” “Yes, and I got it for only $20.” ▪ Do you get [=subscribe to] the local newspaper? ▪ I'll get the next round of drinks. ▪ He offered to get the check, but I insisted on getting it myself. ▪ He got a beautiful necklace for his wife. = He got his wife a beautiful necklace.
▪ I'll get a pencil from the desk. ▪ Can I get anything for you? = Can I get you anything? ▪ Someone has to (go) get the boss from the airport and bring her back here.
▪ I have to get an important message to her at once! ▪ We have to get him to the hospital immediately.
▪ He quickly got himself and his luggage through customs. ▪ She got the car out of the garage. ▪ I could barely get [=fit] the luggage into the car's trunk. ▪ I can't get this ring on/off my finger.
b always followed by an adverb or preposition [no obj] : to move or go
▪ He got on the horse and rode away. ▪ We got on/off the bus. ▪ They quickly got [=passed] through customs. ▪ She never got out of the house last weekend. ▪ He lost weight to be able to get [=fit] into his jeans again. ▪ He got between them to keep them from fighting. ▪ Ouch! Get off my foot!
c always followed by an adverb [no obj] : to arrive at a place
▪ When did you get here/there? ▪ He got home last night.
▪ I got a funny feeling when I saw her again. ▪ He somehow got the idea that I was lying to him. ▪ I got the impression that he wasn't interested. ▪ One thing led to another, and—well, you get the picture/idea. [=you can easily guess the rest]
▪ I got a bad cold when I was on vacation. ▪ Clean the wound carefully so you don't get an infection.
b : to suffer (an injury)
▪ He got a broken nose in a fight. ▪ Where/how did you get that bruise on your leg?
▪ We've been getting a lot of rain recently. ▪ I finally got a good night's sleep last night. [=I finally slept well last night] ▪ The inn doesn't get many visitors these days. ▪ “Do people often ask if you're Irish?” “Yes, I get that a lot.” [=people ask me that often] ▪ You get [=there are] so many crazy drivers these days.
▪ That joke always gets a laugh. ▪ Her comments got an angry reaction.
▪ He hasn't gotten far with the essay. [=he hasn't made much progress with the essay] ▪ You won't get anywhere with flattery. [=you won't succeed by using flattery] ▪ At last we're getting somewhere (with our work)! — see also get ahead (below)
b [+ obj] : to cause or help (someone) to make progress
▪ All that effort didn't really get us very far. ▪ Flattery will get you nowhere. = Flattery won't get you anywhere.
▪ He got his feet wet when he stepped in a puddle. ▪ He got his nose broken in a fight. [=his nose was broken in a fight] ▪ I told you not to get yourself dirty. ▪ You nearly got us both killed! ▪ I need to get [=have] my hair cut. ▪ She finally got her office organized. ▪ He promised to get the work done quickly. [=to do the work quickly] ▪ When you're making a measurement be careful to get it right. [=to do it correctly] ▪ Let me get this straight [=let me be sure that I understand this correctly]: are you saying that you won't help us?
▪ We got talking about old times. — see also get to 1a (below)
▪ She never got to go to college. ▪ Why do I never get to drive the car? ▪ She hopes she'll finally get to spend more time working on her garden this year.
▪ Would somebody please get the phone?
b : to open (a door)
▪ If you'll get the door for me, I'll carry that box inside. ▪ There's someone at the door. Would you please get it? [=open the door and deal with the person who knocked]
▪ I just don't get the point of what you're saying. ▪ He didn't get the joke. ▪ I don't get what you mean. ▪ Oh, now I get it. [=understand] ▪ He's a strange guy. I just don't get him. ▪ Don't get me wrong. [=don't misunderstand what I am saying] ▪ I get your drift. [=I understand what you are saying]
b : to hear and understand (something)
▪ I didn't quite get [=catch] his name.
▪ My hands got dirty when I was working in the garden. ▪ I get very nervous when I have to speak in public. ▪ I got sick last week but I'm feeling better now. ▪ I just can't get used to this cold weather. ▪ She sent her sick friend a “Get Well Soon” card. ▪ I should go; it's getting late. ▪ (Brit, informal) Your daughter's getting quite a big girl now! ▪ We need to finish by 5 o'clock, so we'd better get busy. [=begin to work] ▪ You've never heard of the Internet? Come on, now. Get with it. [=become up-to-date in your knowledge] ◊People say how stupid/lucky (etc.) can you get to mean that someone or something is unusually stupid, lucky, etc.
▪ He tried to rob a policeman. How stupid can you get? [=he was very stupid to try to rob a policeman] ▪ Just look at that dress! How tacky can you get? [=that dress is very tacky]
b [no obj] : to change in a specified way as time passes — followed by to + verb ▪ Your daughter is getting to be [=is becoming] quite a big girl now!
▪ We got dinner at an Italian restaurant last night.
b : to prepare (a meal)
▪ On weekends, my wife sleeps late while I get breakfast.
▪ He got five years in prison for his crime. ▪ (informal) If you don't stop misbehaving you're going to get it when your father gets home! [=your father is going to punish you]
▪ The dog got the thief by the leg. ▪ He got [=grabbed] me around/by the neck and wouldn't let go.
▪ The Royal Canadian Mounted Police always get their man! [=they always capture the man they are trying to capture]
▪ The bullet got him in the leg.
▪ He's convinced that his ex-wife is out to get him. ▪ I'll get you if it's the last thing I do!
b : to cause the death of (someone)
▪ He had heart problems for many years, but it was pneumonia that got him in the end.
▪ It really gets me that such a foolish man has so much influence. ▪ What gets me is all these delays! — see also get to 2a (below)
b : to make (someone) sad
▪ The end of that movie always gets me. — see also get to 2b (below)
c : to cause (someone) to be fooled or unable to think of an answer
▪ Well, you got [=fooled, tricked] me that time. That was very clever. ▪ That's a good question. You've got me (there). [=I don't know the answer]
▪ Where were you? I've been trying to get [=reach] you (on the phone) all day! ▪ When I tried to call him I got his answering machine. [=the phone was answered by his answering machine]
▪ We don't get this channel at home.
▪ Our new car gets [=delivers] excellent gas mileage.
▪ Did you get the way he looked at you? — often used to direct someone's attention to a person or thing that is seen as foolish, surprising, etc. ▪ Just get him in his new pants! ▪ She showed up at the party in—get this—a $3,000 designer dress!
get about — see get around (below)
get above yourself — see 2above
get across [phrasal verb] 1 : to be clearly expressed to and understood by someone
▪ I hope my point has finally gotten across to you. [=I hope you finally understand what I am trying to say] 2 get (something) across or get across (something) : to express (something) clearly so that it is understood
▪ I don't know if I was able to get my point across to you. ▪ a politician who is trying hard to get his message across (to the voters)
▪ I hope my point has finally gotten across to you. [=I hope you finally understand what I am trying to say]
▪ I don't know if I was able to get my point across to you. ▪ a politician who is trying hard to get his message across (to the voters)
get after [phrasal verb]
get after (someone) US, informal : to tell (someone) repeatedly to do something
▪ His parents are always getting after him about doing his homework. = His parents are always getting after him to do his homework.
▪ His parents are always getting after him about doing his homework. = His parents are always getting after him to do his homework.
get ahead [phrasal verb]
: to become more successful
▪ a book about how to get ahead in the business world
▪ a book about how to get ahead in the business world
get along [phrasal verb] 1 : to be or remain friendly
▪ We get along well enough, but we're not really close friends. ▪ My brother and my uncle don't really get along (with each other). 2 : to make progress while doing something
▪ How are you getting along with your work? [=how's your work coming along?] ▪ He never showed up, but we managed to get along [=get by] without him. 3 : to leave a place
▪ I really must be getting along. [=going, leaving] 4 : to become old
▪ Her parents are getting along in years.
▪ We get along well enough, but we're not really close friends. ▪ My brother and my uncle don't really get along (with each other).
▪ How are you getting along with your work? [=how's your work coming along?] ▪ He never showed up, but we managed to get along [=get by] without him.
▪ I really must be getting along. [=going, leaving]
▪ Her parents are getting along in years.
get around [phrasal verb] 1 or chiefly Brit get about : to go, walk, or travel to different places
▪ She gets around a lot because of her job. ▪ He's having trouble getting around because of his sore knee. 2 or chiefly Brit get round or get about : to become known by many people
▪ People will be shocked when the news about her arrest gets around. ▪ Word got around that he was resigning. 3 get around (something) or chiefly Brit get round (something) : to avoid being stopped by (something) : to avoid having to deal with (something)
▪ I'm sure we can find a way to get around these problems. ▪ There's no getting around the fact that the current system isn't working. [=there is no way to deny that the current system isn't working] 4 get around to (something) or chiefly Brit get round to (something) : to do or deal with (something that you have not yet done or dealt with)
▪ Don't you think it's about time you got around to tidying your room? ▪ I've been meaning to call her, but I just haven't gotten around to it. [=I haven't called her] ▪ Sooner or later we'll have to get around to the subject of taxation.
▪ She gets around a lot because of her job. ▪ He's having trouble getting around because of his sore knee.
▪ People will be shocked when the news about her arrest gets around. ▪ Word got around that he was resigning.
▪ I'm sure we can find a way to get around these problems. ▪ There's no getting around the fact that the current system isn't working. [=there is no way to deny that the current system isn't working]
▪ Don't you think it's about time you got around to tidying your room? ▪ I've been meaning to call her, but I just haven't gotten around to it. [=I haven't called her] ▪ Sooner or later we'll have to get around to the subject of taxation.
get at [phrasal verb] 1 get at (something or someone) : to reach (something or someone)
▪ The valve is hard to get at unless you have a special tool. ▪ An angry mob tried to get at him but the police protected him. 2 get at (something) : to find out (information that is hidden or hard to know)
▪ How can we ever get at the truth? 3 get at (something) : to say or suggest (something) in an indirect way — usually used as getting at ▪ Just what are you getting at? [=what are you suggesting?] 4 get at (someone) Brit : to criticize (someone) repeatedly
▪ He says his teachers are always getting at [=(US) getting on] him unfairly. ▪ He's always being got at by his teachers. 5 get at it US, informal : to start doing something
▪ You have a lot of work to do so you'd better get at it. [=get to it]
▪ The valve is hard to get at unless you have a special tool. ▪ An angry mob tried to get at him but the police protected him.
▪ How can we ever get at the truth?
▪ He says his teachers are always getting at [=(US) getting on] him unfairly. ▪ He's always being got at by his teachers.
▪ You have a lot of work to do so you'd better get at it. [=get to it]
get away [phrasal verb] 1 : to go away from a place
▪ I'll be busy at work all day and I can't get away until tonight. — often used figuratively ▪ The company is having problems because they've gotten away from the things they do best. [=they have stopped doing the things they do best] 2 : to go away from your home for a vacation
▪ I'm taking some time off because I really need to get away for a few days. ▪ We went on a cruise to get away from it all. 3 : to avoid being caught : to escape
▪ The robbers got away (from the police) in a fast car. — often + with ▪ The robbers got away with a lot of stolen jewelry. — sometimes used figuratively ▪ You can't get away from the facts. = There's no getting away from the facts. [=you can't avoid or deny the facts; the facts are known and cannot be ignored] — see also getaway 4 get away with (something) a : to not be criticized or punished for (something)
▪ She's incredibly rude. I don't know how she gets away with it. — often used figuratively ▪ There's a chance of rain, but I think I can probably get away with leaving my umbrella at home. [=I probably will not need my umbrella] ▪ It would be nice to have more food for the party, but I think we can get away with what we have. [=I think what we have is enough and will not cause problems for us]
b : to be given only slight or mild punishment for a crime or for doing something wrong
▪ The policeman stopped her for speeding but let her get away with just a warning. — see also get away with murder at 1murder
▪ I'll be busy at work all day and I can't get away until tonight. — often used figuratively ▪ The company is having problems because they've gotten away from the things they do best. [=they have stopped doing the things they do best]
▪ I'm taking some time off because I really need to get away for a few days. ▪ We went on a cruise to get away from it all.
▪ The robbers got away (from the police) in a fast car. — often + with ▪ The robbers got away with a lot of stolen jewelry. — sometimes used figuratively ▪ You can't get away from the facts. = There's no getting away from the facts. [=you can't avoid or deny the facts; the facts are known and cannot be ignored] — see also getaway
▪ She's incredibly rude. I don't know how she gets away with it. — often used figuratively ▪ There's a chance of rain, but I think I can probably get away with leaving my umbrella at home. [=I probably will not need my umbrella] ▪ It would be nice to have more food for the party, but I think we can get away with what we have. [=I think what we have is enough and will not cause problems for us]
b : to be given only slight or mild punishment for a crime or for doing something wrong
▪ The policeman stopped her for speeding but let her get away with just a warning. — see also get away with murder at 1murder
get back [phrasal verb] 1 : to return to a place after going away
▪ When did you get back from your vacation? ▪ We got back to the office in the early afternoon. 2 : to return to an activity, condition, etc. — usually + to ▪ Things are finally getting back to normal. ▪ Let's get back to the topic we were discussing yesterday. ▪ It's time to get back to work. [=to start working again] 3 get (something) back or get back (something) : to get or obtain (something you have lost) again : to recover (something)
▪ He got his old job back after a long struggle. ▪ Someone stole his wallet but he got it back from the police. 4 get (someone) back or get back at (someone) or Brit get your own back informal : to do something bad or unpleasant to someone who has treated you badly or unfairly
▪ I'll get you back for what you did to me! ▪ After he lost his job, he vowed that he would find a way to get back at his old boss. 5 get back to (someone) a : to talk to or write to (someone) at a later time in order to give more information, answer a question, etc.
▪ He got back to me (by e-mail) in a few days with a new offer. ▪ “How much will it cost?” “I'm not sure. I'll have to get back to you on that.”
b : to call (someone) back on the telephone
▪ “There's someone on the phone for you, sir.” “Tell them I can't take their call now but I'll get back to them as soon as I can.”
▪ When did you get back from your vacation? ▪ We got back to the office in the early afternoon.
▪ He got his old job back after a long struggle. ▪ Someone stole his wallet but he got it back from the police.
▪ I'll get you back for what you did to me! ▪ After he lost his job, he vowed that he would find a way to get back at his old boss.
▪ He got back to me (by e-mail) in a few days with a new offer. ▪ “How much will it cost?” “I'm not sure. I'll have to get back to you on that.”
b : to call (someone) back on the telephone
▪ “There's someone on the phone for you, sir.” “Tell them I can't take their call now but I'll get back to them as soon as I can.”
get back to (the) basics — see 2basic
get behind [phrasal verb] 1 : to fail to do something as quickly as required or expected
▪ We've been getting further (and further) behind (schedule). ▪ We got behind with our car payments. 2 get behind (someone or something) : to support (someone or something)
▪ The proposal may succeed if a few more people get behind it.
▪ We've been getting further (and further) behind (schedule). ▪ We got behind with our car payments.
▪ The proposal may succeed if a few more people get behind it.
get by [phrasal verb] 1 : to do enough or to do well enough to avoid failure
▪ He's doing very well in his history classes, but he's barely getting by in math. 2 : to be able to live or to do what is needed by using what you have even though you do not have much
▪ We don't have a lot of money, but we get by. — often + on ▪ How can you get by on such a small salary? — often + with ▪ We got by with a minimum of clothing when we went camping.
▪ He's doing very well in his history classes, but he's barely getting by in math.
▪ We don't have a lot of money, but we get by. — often + on ▪ How can you get by on such a small salary? — often + with ▪ We got by with a minimum of clothing when we went camping.
get cracking — see 1crack
get down [phrasal verb] 1 get (someone) down : to cause (someone) to become sad or depressed
▪ The weather was really getting her down. ▪ Talking about politics always gets me down. 2 get (something) down or get down (something) a : to swallow (something) : to eat or drink (something)
▪ You'll feel better once you get this medicine down.
b : to write (something) down
▪ If you have a good idea, you should get it down (in writing) so that you won't forget it. 3 informal : to play music or dance with skill and enthusiasm
▪ She likes to get down on the dance floor. 4 get down to (something) a : to start to do (something) : to begin to give your attention or effort to (something)
▪ It's time to stop delaying and get down to work. ▪ Let's get down to business.
b : to talk about or describe (something) in a very simple and accurate way
▪ When you get right down to it, this movie is just not very good.
▪ The weather was really getting her down. ▪ Talking about politics always gets me down.
▪ You'll feel better once you get this medicine down.
b : to write (something) down
▪ If you have a good idea, you should get it down (in writing) so that you won't forget it.
▪ She likes to get down on the dance floor.
▪ It's time to stop delaying and get down to work. ▪ Let's get down to business.
b : to talk about or describe (something) in a very simple and accurate way
▪ When you get right down to it, this movie is just not very good.
get even — see 1even
get going 1 : to leave
▪ We ought to get going if we don't want to be late. 2 : to start doing something
▪ You should get going on that assignment. 3 a : to start talking
▪ Once he gets going about the war you can't shut him up.
b : to cause (someone) to start talking
▪ Don't get him going about the war or you'll never shut him up!
▪ We ought to get going if we don't want to be late.
▪ You should get going on that assignment.
▪ Once he gets going about the war you can't shut him up.
b : to cause (someone) to start talking
▪ Don't get him going about the war or you'll never shut him up!
get hold of — see 2hold
get in [phrasal verb] 1 a : to enter a place
▪ The burglar got in through an unlocked window.
b : to arrive at a place
▪ The train got in late.
c : to arrive home
▪ Her husband was out late last night. He didn't get in until almost midnight. 2 : to become involved in an activity
▪ The people who have become rich in this business are the ones who got in at the beginning. 3 : to be chosen or elected for office
▪ The mayor got in by a very slim margin. 4 get in or get (someone) in : to be accepted or to cause (someone) to be accepted as a student, member, etc.
▪ It's a very good school. I hope your daughter gets in. ▪ I hope you get your daughter in. 5 get (someone) in : to have (someone) come to your home, business, etc., to do work
▪ We had to get a doctor/plumber in to deal with the emergency. 6 get (something) in or get in (something) a : to do or say (something) by making an effort
▪ He managed to get a few good punches in before they stopped the fight. ▪ May I get a word in here? [=may I say something here?] — see also get a word in edgewise at edgewise
b : to send or deliver (something) to the proper person or place
▪ Did you get your assignment in on time?
c : to do (something) in the amount of time that is available
▪ I was able to get in a few hours of reading last night. ▪ I hope we can get in a visit to the art museum the next time we're in the city.
d : to harvest (a crop) and put it in a safe or dry place
▪ It's time to get the crop/harvest in. ▪ We'd better get the hay in before it rains. 7 get in on (something) : to become involved in (something)
▪ It sounds like an interesting project and I'd like to get in on it. 8 get in with (someone) : to become friends with (someone)
▪ She got in with [=fell in with] a bad crowd and got into trouble. ▪ He managed to get in good with the boss. [=he got the boss to like him]
▪ The burglar got in through an unlocked window.
b : to arrive at a place
▪ The train got in late.
c : to arrive home
▪ Her husband was out late last night. He didn't get in until almost midnight.
▪ The people who have become rich in this business are the ones who got in at the beginning.
▪ The mayor got in by a very slim margin.
▪ It's a very good school. I hope your daughter gets in. ▪ I hope you get your daughter in.
▪ We had to get a doctor/plumber in to deal with the emergency.
▪ He managed to get a few good punches in before they stopped the fight. ▪ May I get a word in here? [=may I say something here?] — see also get a word in edgewise at edgewise
b : to send or deliver (something) to the proper person or place
▪ Did you get your assignment in on time?
c : to do (something) in the amount of time that is available
▪ I was able to get in a few hours of reading last night. ▪ I hope we can get in a visit to the art museum the next time we're in the city.
d : to harvest (a crop) and put it in a safe or dry place
▪ It's time to get the crop/harvest in. ▪ We'd better get the hay in before it rains.
▪ It sounds like an interesting project and I'd like to get in on it.
▪ She got in with [=fell in with] a bad crowd and got into trouble. ▪ He managed to get in good with the boss. [=he got the boss to like him]
get into [phrasal verb] 1 get into (a place) a : to enter (a place)
▪ The burglar got into the house through an unlocked window.
b : to arrive at (a place)
▪ The train got into New York late last night. 2 get into (something) a : to become involved in (an activity)
▪ The people who have become rich in this business are the ones who got into it at the beginning.
b : to begin to be interested in and to enjoy (something)
▪ It's only recently that I've really gotten into music. ▪ I tried reading the book, but I just couldn't get into it. 3 get into (something) or get (someone) into (something) a : to be accepted or to cause (someone) to be accepted as a student, member, etc.
▪ I hope your daughter gets into the school. ▪ I hope you get your daughter into the school.
b : to become involved or to cause (someone) to become involved in (something bad, such as trouble or a fight)
▪ He got into a lot of trouble when he was a teenager. ▪ They got into an argument. ▪ His friends got him into trouble. 4 get into (something) : to talk about (something)
▪ I'll tell you what happened, but I don't want to get into [=go into] all the reasons for why it happened. 5 got into (someone) : to affect the behavior of (someone) — used to say that someone is behaving in an unusual way and you don't know why ▪ I don't know what has gotten into him lately. ▪ She never used to be so rude to people. What got into her? [=why is she behaving this way?]
▪ The burglar got into the house through an unlocked window.
b : to arrive at (a place)
▪ The train got into New York late last night.
▪ The people who have become rich in this business are the ones who got into it at the beginning.
b : to begin to be interested in and to enjoy (something)
▪ It's only recently that I've really gotten into music. ▪ I tried reading the book, but I just couldn't get into it.
▪ I hope your daughter gets into the school. ▪ I hope you get your daughter into the school.
b : to become involved or to cause (someone) to become involved in (something bad, such as trouble or a fight)
▪ He got into a lot of trouble when he was a teenager. ▪ They got into an argument. ▪ His friends got him into trouble.
▪ I'll tell you what happened, but I don't want to get into [=go into] all the reasons for why it happened.
get lost — see 2lost
get lucky — see lucky
get moving — see 1move
get off [phrasal verb] 1 : to leave at the start of a journey
▪ We got off early on our camping trip. — often used figuratively in the phrase get off to a good/bad (etc.) start ▪ He and I got off to a bad start, but now we get along well. ▪ The project got off to a slow start. — see also get off on the right/wrong foot at 1foot 2 get off or get (someone) off a : to not be punished for a crime : to be judged not guilty of a crime
▪ He's been arrested several times, but he always gets off. : to help (someone) to be judged not guilty ▪ His lawyer got him off.
b : to be given or to help (someone) to be given only a slight punishment for a crime
▪ She got off lightly. — usually + with ▪ He got off with a light sentence. ▪ His lawyer tried to get him off with a light sentence. — sometimes used figuratively ▪ It was a bad accident. You're lucky that you got off with just a broken leg—you could have been killed! 3 : to stop being on or against someone or something
▪ Get off—you're hurting me! ▪ I took the subway and got off at the downtown station. — see also get 5a, b (above) 4 get off (something) or get (someone) off (something) : to stop talking about (something) or to cause (someone) to stop talking about (something)
▪ We somehow got off (the subject of) work and started talking about our personal lives. ▪ I tried to change the subject, but I couldn't get her off it. 5 get off or get off work : to finish working and leave the place where you work
▪ I get off early on Fridays. ▪ I got off work early last Thursday so I could see the parade. 6 get (something) off or get off (something) a : to write and send (a letter, an e-mail message, etc.)
▪ I'll get the letter off (to them) tomorrow.
b : to shoot (something) from a gun
▪ The policeman got off [=fired] several shots before the criminal escaped. — sometimes used figuratively ▪ He managed to get off a few good jokes in his speech. 7 get off or get (someone) off chiefly Brit : to fall asleep or to help (someone, such as a baby) to fall asleep
▪ I had just got off [=dropped off] when the doorbell rang. = I had just got off to sleep when the doorbell rang. ▪ I just got the baby off to sleep. 8 get off or get (someone) off US, informal : to have an orgasm or to cause (someone) to have an orgasm 9 get off on (something) informal + sometimes disapproving : to enjoy or be excited by (something) especially in a sexual way
▪ He's one of those guys who seem to get off on making other people feel guilty. 10 get off with (someone) Brit, informal : to have sex with (someone) : to begin a sexual relationship with (someone)
▪ She found out he'd gotten off with another woman. 11 informal a ◊To tell someone where to get off is to criticize or disagree with someone in a very direct and angry way.
▪ I was sick of listening to his constant complaints, so I told him where to get off.
b US ◊If you don't know where someone gets off (doing something), you are angry because someone has done something that is not right.
▪ I don't know where he gets off telling me what to do. = Where does he get off telling me what to do? [=he has no right to tell me what to do]
▪ We got off early on our camping trip. — often used figuratively in the phrase get off to a good/bad (etc.) start ▪ He and I got off to a bad start, but now we get along well. ▪ The project got off to a slow start. — see also get off on the right/wrong foot at 1foot
▪ He's been arrested several times, but he always gets off. : to help (someone) to be judged not guilty ▪ His lawyer got him off.
b : to be given or to help (someone) to be given only a slight punishment for a crime
▪ She got off lightly. — usually + with ▪ He got off with a light sentence. ▪ His lawyer tried to get him off with a light sentence. — sometimes used figuratively ▪ It was a bad accident. You're lucky that you got off with just a broken leg—you could have been killed!
▪ Get off—you're hurting me! ▪ I took the subway and got off at the downtown station. — see also get 5a, b (above)
▪ We somehow got off (the subject of) work and started talking about our personal lives. ▪ I tried to change the subject, but I couldn't get her off it.
▪ I get off early on Fridays. ▪ I got off work early last Thursday so I could see the parade.
▪ I'll get the letter off (to them) tomorrow.
b : to shoot (something) from a gun
▪ The policeman got off [=fired] several shots before the criminal escaped. — sometimes used figuratively ▪ He managed to get off a few good jokes in his speech.
▪ I had just got off [=dropped off] when the doorbell rang. = I had just got off to sleep when the doorbell rang. ▪ I just got the baby off to sleep.
▪ He's one of those guys who seem to get off on making other people feel guilty.
▪ She found out he'd gotten off with another woman.
▪ I was sick of listening to his constant complaints, so I told him where to get off.
b US ◊If you don't know where someone gets off (doing something), you are angry because someone has done something that is not right.
▪ I don't know where he gets off telling me what to do. = Where does he get off telling me what to do? [=he has no right to tell me what to do]
get on [phrasal verb] 1 get on with (something) : to continue doing (something)
▪ I didn't mean to interrupt you. I'll let you get on with your work. ▪ You need to stop feeling sorry for yourself and just get on with your life. [=return to doing the things you do in your normal life] ▪ This introduction is taking forever. I wish they'd just get on with it. [=stop delaying and get to the interesting or important part] 2 chiefly Brit : to be or remain friendly : to get along
▪ They've never really got on (with each other). ▪ We get on well enough, but we're not really close friends. 3 chiefly Brit a : to make progress while doing something
▪ How is your daughter getting on in/at school? ▪ We can get on [=get along, get by, manage] just fine without them.
b : to achieve greater success : to get ahead
▪ an ambitious young woman trying to get on in business 4 get on (something) US : to start to do or deal with (something)
▪ “These files need to be organized.” “I'll get on it right away.” 5 get on (someone) US : to criticize (someone) repeatedly
▪ His boss has been getting on him about the quality of his work. ▪ She's always getting on his case about cleaning his room. [=she's always telling him to clean it] 6 get it on US slang : to have sex 7 informal a get on or get on in years : to grow old
▪ My grandmother is getting on [=aging] a bit, but she's still very active.
b : to become late
▪ It's getting on, and we really ought to go. 8 get on for (something) Brit, informal : to move toward becoming (a specified age, time, etc.)
▪ He's getting on for 70. [=he's approaching 70; he is nearly 70] ▪ It was getting on for noon.
▪ I didn't mean to interrupt you. I'll let you get on with your work. ▪ You need to stop feeling sorry for yourself and just get on with your life. [=return to doing the things you do in your normal life] ▪ This introduction is taking forever. I wish they'd just get on with it. [=stop delaying and get to the interesting or important part]
▪ They've never really got on (with each other). ▪ We get on well enough, but we're not really close friends.
▪ How is your daughter getting on in/at school? ▪ We can get on [=get along, get by, manage] just fine without them.
b : to achieve greater success : to get ahead
▪ an ambitious young woman trying to get on in business
▪ “These files need to be organized.” “I'll get on it right away.”
▪ His boss has been getting on him about the quality of his work. ▪ She's always getting on his case about cleaning his room. [=she's always telling him to clean it]
▪ My grandmother is getting on [=aging] a bit, but she's still very active.
b : to become late
▪ It's getting on, and we really ought to go.
▪ He's getting on for 70. [=he's approaching 70; he is nearly 70] ▪ It was getting on for noon.
get onto or get on to [phrasal verb] 1 get onto (something) or get on to (something) : to start to do or deal with (something)
▪ “We need someone to send out the invitations.” “I'll get onto [=get on] it right away.” : to start to talk about something ▪ How did we get onto this topic? 2 get onto (someone) or get on to (someone) Brit : to speak to or write to (someone) about a particular problem, job, etc.
▪ I'll get onto [=get in touch with] the doctor/plumber straightaway and see if he'll come round.
▪ “We need someone to send out the invitations.” “I'll get onto [=get on] it right away.” : to start to talk about something ▪ How did we get onto this topic?
▪ I'll get onto [=get in touch with] the doctor/plumber straightaway and see if he'll come round.
get out [phrasal verb] 1 a : to leave or escape from a place, a vehicle, etc.
▪ He was trapped in the burning building/car, but he was somehow able to get out (of it) alive. — used as an angry way to tell someone to leave ▪ Get out! I never want to see you again!
b get (someone) out : to cause or help (someone) to leave or escape
▪ The firemen managed to get him out (of the burning building) alive.
c get (something) out or get out (something) : to remove (something) from storage so that it can be used
▪ It's raining. I'd better get out the umbrella. 2 : to go to places outside your home for social occasions, events, etc.
▪ You spend too much time at home. You need to get out more. 3 : to become known
▪ Their secret got out. ▪ Word got out that she was resigning. 4 get (something) out or get out (something) : to say (something) by making an effort
▪ He managed to get out a few words before he collapsed. 5 US, informal — used in speech to show that you are surprised by something or do not believe it ▪ “They gave the job to Jane.” “Get out!” = “Get out of here!” 6 get out of (something) or get (someone or something) out of (something) a : to avoid doing (something) or to help (someone) to avoid doing (something)
▪ I didn't want to go to the lecture, but I couldn't get out of it. ▪ He tried to get out of doing his homework. ▪ My sister said she could get me out of going to the party if I really didn't want to go
b : to stop having (a habit) or to cause (someone) to stop having (a habit)
▪ I used to exercise every day, but I got out of the habit. ▪ All the extra work I've been doing has gotten me out of the habit of exercising.
c : to stop being in or involved in (something) or to cause (someone or something) to stop being in or involved in (something)
▪ The company has decided to get (itself) out of the computer business. ▪ She got her money out of the stock market. 7 get (something) out of (something or someone) : to take (something) from (something or someone)
▪ The police officer got the gun out of the suspect's hand. ▪ The police officer got a confession out of the suspect. 8 get (something) out of (something) : to gain (something) from (something)
▪ What do you hope to get out of this experience?
▪ He was trapped in the burning building/car, but he was somehow able to get out (of it) alive. — used as an angry way to tell someone to leave ▪ Get out! I never want to see you again!
b get (someone) out : to cause or help (someone) to leave or escape
▪ The firemen managed to get him out (of the burning building) alive.
c get (something) out or get out (something) : to remove (something) from storage so that it can be used
▪ It's raining. I'd better get out the umbrella.
▪ You spend too much time at home. You need to get out more.
▪ Their secret got out. ▪ Word got out that she was resigning.
▪ He managed to get out a few words before he collapsed.
▪ I didn't want to go to the lecture, but I couldn't get out of it. ▪ He tried to get out of doing his homework. ▪ My sister said she could get me out of going to the party if I really didn't want to go
b : to stop having (a habit) or to cause (someone) to stop having (a habit)
▪ I used to exercise every day, but I got out of the habit. ▪ All the extra work I've been doing has gotten me out of the habit of exercising.
c : to stop being in or involved in (something) or to cause (someone or something) to stop being in or involved in (something)
▪ The company has decided to get (itself) out of the computer business. ▪ She got her money out of the stock market.
▪ The police officer got the gun out of the suspect's hand. ▪ The police officer got a confession out of the suspect.
▪ What do you hope to get out of this experience?
get over [phrasal verb] 1 get over (something) a : to stop being controlled or bothered by (something, such as a problem or feeling)
▪ You need to get over [=overcome] your fear of being lied to.
b : to stop feeling unhappy about (something)
▪ She's disappointed about their decision, but she'll get over it eventually.
c informal — used to say that you are very surprised or impressed by something ▪ I just can't get over how much weight you've lost! 2 get over (an illness) : to become healthy again after (an illness)
▪ He had a bad cold, and he still hasn't gotten over it completely. 3 get over (someone) : to stop feeling unhappy after ending a relationship with (someone)
▪ He broke up with his girlfriend a couple of months ago, and he still hasn't gotten over her. 4 get (something) over a or get (something) over with : to cause or experience the end of (something) : to finish (something)
▪ I just want to get this ordeal over! = I just want to get this ordeal over with! = I just want to get this ordeal over and done with! [=I want this ordeal to end]
b or get over (something) chiefly Brit : to express (something) clearly so that it is understood
▪ I don't know if I was able to get my message over [=across] to them.
▪ You need to get over [=overcome] your fear of being lied to.
b : to stop feeling unhappy about (something)
▪ She's disappointed about their decision, but she'll get over it eventually.
c informal — used to say that you are very surprised or impressed by something ▪ I just can't get over how much weight you've lost!
▪ He had a bad cold, and he still hasn't gotten over it completely.
▪ He broke up with his girlfriend a couple of months ago, and he still hasn't gotten over her.
▪ I just want to get this ordeal over! = I just want to get this ordeal over with! = I just want to get this ordeal over and done with! [=I want this ordeal to end]
b or get over (something) chiefly Brit : to express (something) clearly so that it is understood
▪ I don't know if I was able to get my message over [=across] to them.
get real — see 1real
get rid of — see rid
get rolling — see 1roll
get round — see get around (above)
get the best of — see 3best
get the better of — see 3better
get there
: to reach a goal : to do what you are trying to do
▪ We haven't made a profit yet, but we'll get there eventually. [=we'll make a profit eventually] : to come closer to reaching a goal ▪ We haven't made a profit yet, but we're getting there.
▪ We haven't made a profit yet, but we'll get there eventually. [=we'll make a profit eventually] : to come closer to reaching a goal ▪ We haven't made a profit yet, but we're getting there.
get through [phrasal verb] 1 a chiefly US : to finish a job or activity
▪ When you get through (with that job), I've got something else for you to do.
b get through (something) : to do or finish (something, such as an amount of work)
▪ We got through [=covered] all of the material that we wanted to cover. ▪ There's still a lot of paperwork to be gotten through.
c get through (something) or get (someone) through (something) : to complete or to help (someone) to complete (a test, an exam, etc.) successfully
▪ She studied hard and got through [=passed] her exams. ▪ The extra hours of study are what got her through her exams. 2 get through or get through (something) or get (something) through (something) : to pass through or beyond something that blocks you or slows you down
▪ Traffic was very heavy, but we managed to get through (it). ▪ Rescuers are having trouble getting through to the flood victims. : to cause (something) to pass through or beyond something ▪ Traffic was very heavy, but we managed to get our truck through (it). ▪ Rescuers are having trouble getting supplies through to the flood victims. 3 get through (something) or get (someone) through (something) : to have the experience of living through (something that is difficult, dangerous, etc.)
▪ It was a very difficult time in our marriage, but we got through it. ▪ I don't know how those early settlers managed to get through [=survive] the winter. : to help (someone) to live through (something) ▪ It was pure determination that got them through that crisis. 4 get through (something) chiefly Brit : to spend or use all of (something)
▪ He got through [=went through] all the money he inherited in just a few years. ▪ They got through [=went through] three bottles of wine with dinner. 5 a get through or get through to (someone) : to be clearly expressed to and understood by someone
▪ I hope my message has finally gotten through to you. [=I hope you finally understand my message] ▪ I think my message finally got through.
b get through to (someone) or get (something) through to (someone) : to express something clearly so that it is understood by (someone)
▪ I've talked to him many times, but I just can't seem to get through to him. ▪ I hope I've finally gotten my message through to him. 6 get through or get through to (someone) : to make a successful telephone call to someone
▪ I tried to call home but I couldn't get through. ▪ Where were you? I've been trying to get through to you (on the phone) all day! 7 get through or get through (something) : to be accepted or approved by an official group
▪ The bill finally got through [=passed] and eventually became a law. ▪ The bill finally got through [=passed] Congress and eventually became a law.
▪ When you get through (with that job), I've got something else for you to do.
b get through (something) : to do or finish (something, such as an amount of work)
▪ We got through [=covered] all of the material that we wanted to cover. ▪ There's still a lot of paperwork to be gotten through.
c get through (something) or get (someone) through (something) : to complete or to help (someone) to complete (a test, an exam, etc.) successfully
▪ She studied hard and got through [=passed] her exams. ▪ The extra hours of study are what got her through her exams.
▪ Traffic was very heavy, but we managed to get through (it). ▪ Rescuers are having trouble getting through to the flood victims. : to cause (something) to pass through or beyond something ▪ Traffic was very heavy, but we managed to get our truck through (it). ▪ Rescuers are having trouble getting supplies through to the flood victims.
▪ It was a very difficult time in our marriage, but we got through it. ▪ I don't know how those early settlers managed to get through [=survive] the winter. : to help (someone) to live through (something) ▪ It was pure determination that got them through that crisis.
▪ He got through [=went through] all the money he inherited in just a few years. ▪ They got through [=went through] three bottles of wine with dinner.
▪ I hope my message has finally gotten through to you. [=I hope you finally understand my message] ▪ I think my message finally got through.
b get through to (someone) or get (something) through to (someone) : to express something clearly so that it is understood by (someone)
▪ I've talked to him many times, but I just can't seem to get through to him. ▪ I hope I've finally gotten my message through to him.
▪ I tried to call home but I couldn't get through. ▪ Where were you? I've been trying to get through to you (on the phone) all day!
▪ The bill finally got through [=passed] and eventually became a law. ▪ The bill finally got through [=passed] Congress and eventually became a law.
get to [phrasal verb] 1 get to (something) a : to start (doing something)
▪ She sometimes gets to worrying over her health. ▪ We got to talking about old times.
b : to deal with (something)
▪ The letter is on my desk, but I haven't gotten to it yet. ▪ I'll get to the accounts as soon as I can. 2 get to (someone) a : to bother or annoy (someone)
▪ All these delays are starting to get to me. — see also get 26a (above)
b : to make (someone) feel sad
▪ The movie's sad ending really got to me. — see also get 26b (above)
c chiefly US : to change or influence the behavior of (someone) wrongly or illegally by making threats, paying money, etc.
▪ The witness changed his story. Someone must have gotten to him. 3 get to (somewhere) : to go to or reach (somewhere)
▪ We got to the station/airport just in time.
▪ She sometimes gets to worrying over her health. ▪ We got to talking about old times.
b : to deal with (something)
▪ The letter is on my desk, but I haven't gotten to it yet. ▪ I'll get to the accounts as soon as I can.
▪ All these delays are starting to get to me. — see also get 26a (above)
b : to make (someone) feel sad
▪ The movie's sad ending really got to me. — see also get 26b (above)
c chiefly US : to change or influence the behavior of (someone) wrongly or illegally by making threats, paying money, etc.
▪ The witness changed his story. Someone must have gotten to him.
▪ We got to the station/airport just in time.
get together [phrasal verb] 1 a : to meet and spend time together
▪ I'd like to get together with you soon. ▪ He often gets together with his friends after work.
b : to begin to have a sexual or romantic relationship
▪ He and his wife first got together in college.
c get (people) together : to cause (people) to meet or to have a relationship
▪ Their shared interest in photography is what got them together. 2 : to agree to do or accept something — often + on ▪ The two sides have been unable to get together on a new contract. 3 get together (things or people) or get (things or people) together : to collect (things) or gather (people) into one place or group
▪ He got together [=assembled] a great art collection. ▪ The government got together a group of experts to study the problem. ▪ We're still trying to get together [=obtain] the money we need to buy a new car. 4 get your act together or get yourself together or get it together informal a or get your life together : to begin to live in a good and sensible way : to stop being confused, foolish, etc.
▪ His life got much better when he stopped drinking and got his act together.
b : to begin to function in a skillful or effective way
▪ The company finally got its act together and started making a profit this year.
▪ I'd like to get together with you soon. ▪ He often gets together with his friends after work.
b : to begin to have a sexual or romantic relationship
▪ He and his wife first got together in college.
c get (people) together : to cause (people) to meet or to have a relationship
▪ Their shared interest in photography is what got them together.
▪ He got together [=assembled] a great art collection. ▪ The government got together a group of experts to study the problem. ▪ We're still trying to get together [=obtain] the money we need to buy a new car.
▪ His life got much better when he stopped drinking and got his act together.
b : to begin to function in a skillful or effective way
▪ The company finally got its act together and started making a profit this year.
get to sleep
: to start sleeping : to fall asleep
▪ She finally got to sleep after midnight.
▪ She finally got to sleep after midnight.
get to work
: to start working
▪ We need to stop delaying and get to work.
▪ We need to stop delaying and get to work.
get up [phrasal verb] 1 get up or get (someone) up : to rise or to cause (someone) to rise after lying or sleeping in a bed
▪ I got up [=got out of bed] early this morning. ▪ I woke up early but I didn't get up till later. ▪ The alarm clock got me up earlier than usual. 2 : to stand up
▪ He got up to greet her when she entered the room. 3 get (something) up or get up (something) a : to produce (something, such as courage) in yourself by trying or making an effort
▪ He couldn't get up the courage to ask her out on a date. ▪ She was so tired she could hardly get up the energy to make dinner.
b : to prepare or organize (something that involves a group of people)
▪ They're trying to get up a petition to have the movie theater reopened. 4 get it up slang : to get an erection
▪ I got up [=got out of bed] early this morning. ▪ I woke up early but I didn't get up till later. ▪ The alarm clock got me up earlier than usual.
▪ He got up to greet her when she entered the room.
▪ He couldn't get up the courage to ask her out on a date. ▪ She was so tired she could hardly get up the energy to make dinner.
b : to prepare or organize (something that involves a group of people)
▪ They're trying to get up a petition to have the movie theater reopened.
get up on the wrong side of the bed — see 1bed
get what's coming to you — see 1come
get wind of — see 1wind
get your bearings — see bearing
get your goat — see goat
have got — see have
