A phrasal verb is a group of words that functions as a verb and consists of a verb plus a preposition, an adverb, or both. This is because the meaning of a verb can often change significantly when it is used in a phrasal verb. 

Understanding phrasal verbs is therefore essential for effective communication. For example, the verb ‘to grow’ usually means to become larger or increase in quantity, but the phrasal verb ‘to grow up’ means to become an adult or start behaving in a mature way. Mastering them can be challenging for language learners, but it is an important step in achieving fluency and proficiency in English. 

In today’s blog post, we will explore a few of the many phrasal verbs formed from the verb ‘to get.’ 

GET ACROSS – to clarify something, to make something clear, to communicate clearly, to make oneself understood.: 

• What message are you trying to get across to the consumer?  

GET ALONG WITH – have a harmonious or friendly relationship: 

• Harry and I get along really well, but I don’t get along with Lucy at all.  

GET AT – To suggest something without saying it directly, to criticize someone frequently, to achieve something – to have access to, to bother or disturb someone: 

• We weren’t quite sure what she was getting at.  
• She keeps getting at me for every little thing. I can’t do anything right!  
• The kids can’t get at the sweets because I’ve hidden them!  
• The dogs’ barking outside really started to get at me.  

GET AWAY – to flee, to escape: 

• A police officer grabbed her, but she got away. 

GET BY – manage with difficulty to live or accomplish something: 

• My English isn’t very good, but I get by.  

GET OVER – recover, improve (from an illness): 

• She finally got over the flu.  

GET UP – rise from bed after sleeping: 

• What time do you usually get up?  

GET DOWN TO – Start working on something, especially something you have been putting off, initiate work or focus attention on a task: 

• I must get down to (doing) these tax returns today, or I’ll never finish them!  

GET RID OF – discard or throw something away: 

• Let’s get rid of all this mess before mum comes home.  

Phrasal verbs are important because they are extremely common in informal language. Unless you are familiar with their meanings, it can be difficult to understand everyday conversations. Furthermore, learning to use phrasal verbs correctly can help you sound more natural in casual conversations and improve your ability to express yourself clearly.