# get on the bus

CEFR A1 · Phrasal verb

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

## Definition

To step into or board a large vehicle like a bus, train, or plane.

For teachers: To board or enter a large vehicle, particularly one used for public transport. This phrasal verb is inseparable.

## Examples

- We get on the bus at the next stop.
- You need to buy a ticket before you get on the bus.
- As the storm gathered, the remaining tourists scrambled to get on the bus before the driver pulled away from the remote stop.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I get in the bus every morning." but "I get on the bus every morning." — The correct preposition for boarding a bus is 'on', not 'in'.

## Usage notes

- Use 'get on' for large vehicles you can walk on (bus, train, plane); for cars, use 'get in'.
- Teaching tip: Contrast 'get on' with its opposite 'get off', and also with the pair 'get in'/'get out of' used for smaller vehicles like cars.

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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.