# get on

CEFR A1 · Phrasal verb

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

## Definition

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

For teachers: To board or mount a form of public transport or a large vehicle (e.g., a bus, train, plane, or boat).

## Examples

- Let's get on the bus before it leaves.
- The doors are closing, so you need to get on the train right now.
- As the last few passengers got on the ferry, the crew prepared to raise the ramp and depart from the terminal.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I get in the bus." but "I get on the bus." — Use 'get on' for large public transport like buses and trains, and 'get in' for smaller vehicles like cars.

## Usage notes

- This is used for large vehicles you can stand up inside, like buses, trains, and planes.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'get in', which is used for smaller, private vehicles like cars and taxis that you cannot stand up in.

---

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.