# get by

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/get-by
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to have just enough money or knowledge to manage a situation. You use this when you are doing okay but do not have anything extra.

For teachers: to manage or survive with the limited resources, money, or skills available. The verb is intransitive and denotes a state of bare sufficiency.

## Examples

- I don't earn a lot, but I get by.
- Even though his Spanish was limited, he managed to get by during his short trip to Madrid.
- The small non-profit has struggled to get by on dwindling government grants, yet it continues to provide essential services to the local community despite these financial constraints.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I can't get by my salary." but "I can't get by on my salary." — the verb requires the preposition 'on' when referring to the money or resources used to survive.

## Usage notes

- usually functions as an intransitive verb, though it often takes the preposition 'on' to specify a resource.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'make do' (using a substitute) and 'thrive' (the opposite); 'get by' is about reaching a minimum threshold of survival or competence.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.