'Get' (different meanings)
B2 Upper IntermediateThe verb 'get' is one of the most versatile words in English, functioning as a substitute for various verbs including receive, become, arrive, and fetch.
Core Meanings
In English, get often replaces more formal or specific verbs in spoken and informal written contexts. Its meaning is determined by the words that follow it:
- Get + noun: To receive, obtain, or buy something (e.g., get a letter, get a coffee).
- Get + adjective: To indicate a change in state, meaning 'to become' (e.g., get hungry, get tired).
- Get + place: To arrive at a destination (e.g., get home, get to work).
- Get + object + past participle: To arrange for something to be done by someone else (e.g., get my hair cut).
Conjugation and Structure
get / got / got (or gotten)
The verb is irregular. In British English, the past participle is usually got, while in American English, gotten is frequently used for the past participle sense of 'obtained' or 'become'.
Examples in Context
Register Comparison
While 'get' is common in daily conversation, use the formal equivalents in academic or professional writing to ensure precision.
| Informal (Get) | Formal Equivalent |
|---|---|
| get a phone call | receive a phone call |
| get angry | become angry |
| get to the office | arrive at the office |
| get a taxi | hail or catch a taxi |
Common mistakes
I got to home at 6 PM.
I got home at 6 PM.
The word 'home' acts as an adverb here; do not use the preposition 'to' with 'get home'.
The weather is getting more cold.
The weather is getting colder.
When using 'get' to mean 'become', follow standard comparative adjective rules.
Practice
Rewrite using 'get': 'I arrived at the station at noon.'
Show answer
I got to the station at noon.
Answer:I got to the station at noon.
Why:'Get to' is the informal equivalent of 'arrive at'.
Complete the sentence: 'If you don't wear a coat, you will ______ cold.'
Show answer
get
Answer:get
Why:'Get' followed by an adjective means 'to become'.
Which sentence is correct? A) I got a new job. B) I got to a new job.
Show answer
A
Answer:A
Why:When 'get' means to obtain or start something, it takes a direct object without a preposition.