Common English Phrasal Verbs with ‘Get’

Phrasal verbs are a common feature of the English language and can be quite tricky for learners to master. These verbs combine a verb with a preposition or adverb, creating a new meaning that is often different from the individual words themselves. Today, we’ll focus on some common English phrasal verbs using ‘Get’ to help you expand your vocabulary and improve your fluency.

Understanding Phrasal Verbs

Phrasal verbs can be challenging because their meanings are not always obvious from the individual words. For example, ‘get up’ means to rise from bed, while ‘get along’ means to have a good relationship with someone. To understand a phrasal verb, you need to learn its meaning as a whole.

Common Phrasal Verbs with ‘Get’

Let’s explore some common phrasal verbs using ‘Get’ along with their meanings and examples:

Phrasal Verb	Meaning	Example
Get by	To manage to survive or live, often with limited resources	I’m not rich, but I can get by.
Get along	To have a good relationship with someone	I get along well with my colleagues.
Get back	To return to a place or to a previous situation	I got back from my trip last week.
Get over	To recover from an illness, disappointment, or difficult situation	It took me a while to get over the breakup.
Get through	To succeed in dealing with a difficult situation	I’m not sure how I’ll get through this exam.
Get away	To escape or go on holiday	We’re going to get away for the weekend.
Get off	To leave a vehicle or to escape punishment	I got off the bus at the wrong stop.
Get rid of	To throw away or remove something unwanted	I need to get rid of these old clothes.

Using Phrasal Verbs in Context

The best way to learn phrasal verbs is to see them used in context. Here are some examples of how to use the phrasal verbs we’ve discussed:

• I’m not sure how I’m going to get by on such a low salary.
• My sister and I don’t always get along, but we love each other.
• I got back from my vacation yesterday and I’m already missing it.
• It took me a long time to get over the death of my grandmother.
• I’m going to have to study hard to get through this exam.
• We’re going to get away for the weekend to relax and recharge.
• I got off the train at the wrong station and had to walk back.
• I need to get rid of these old shoes, they’re taking up too much space.

Tips for Learning Phrasal Verbs

• Keep a vocabulary notebook: Write down new phrasal verbs you encounter along with their meanings and example sentences.
• Use flashcards: Create flashcards with the phrasal verb on one side and its meaning on the other. Quiz yourself regularly.
• Read and listen to English: The more you expose yourself to the language, the more familiar you’ll become with phrasal verbs.
• Practice speaking and writing: Use phrasal verbs in your everyday conversations and writing to reinforce your learning.

Learning phrasal verbs can be a challenge, but it’s a rewarding one. By understanding and using these common phrases, you’ll sound more natural and fluent in English. Keep practicing and you’ll be surprised at how quickly your vocabulary grows!