# get on at

CEFR C1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/get-on-at
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to criticize someone repeatedly or complain about their behavior.

For teachers: to harass or nag someone through persistent criticism or complaints; typically used in British English to describe a pattern of verbal annoyance.

## Examples

- My boss is always getting on at me about my desk.
- She felt like her parents were constantly getting on at her to find a better job.
- The supervisor continued to get on at the staff regarding minor clerical errors, despite the significant increase in overall productivity.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He gets on at to me." but "He gets on at me." — the object follows 'at' directly without an extra preposition.

## Usage notes

- transitive phrasal verb requiring an object, usually a person.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'get on with' (to have a good relationship) to show how the preposition 'at' changes the direction of the action to something aggressive or critical.

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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.