English Reference

Phrasal verb

get along

Definition

phrasal verb. to have a friendly relationship with someone. You use this when you and another person like each other and do not argue.

phrasal verb. to maintain a harmonious relationship with another individual. The verb is often used intransitively or followed by the preposition 'with' to indicate the other party.

Examples

“I get along well with my new roommate.”

“Even though they have different hobbies, the two neighbors get along perfectly fine.”

“Despite their initial professional rivalry, the two lead researchers eventually learned to get along for the sake of the project's success.”

Examples

simple

“I get along well with my new roommate.”

contextual

“Even though they have different hobbies, the two neighbors get along perfectly fine.”

complex

“Despite their initial professional rivalry, the two lead researchers eventually learned to get along for the sake of the project's success.”

Usage

usually followed by 'with' when you name the person you are friendly with.

Teaching tip

compare with 'get on', which is the standard equivalent in British English, while 'get along' is more common in American English.

Pitfall

I get along my boss.

I get along with my boss.

the preposition 'with' is necessary before the person being mentioned.

Phrasal verb

Particles

along

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

get + along (+ with + object)

Synonyms

be friendlyharmonizehit it offget on

Antonyms

disagreeargueclash

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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