“Get”: Mastering this irregular verb is essential in English

2025-10-21

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The verb “get” is one of those words that can both excite and frustrate you when learning English. It is versatile, fundamental, and often seems to have a different meaning in every sentence. Many English students feel overwhelmed by the number of uses and expressions it has, and it is easy to make mistakes.

If you have ever wondered how to use the verb “get” in English or if there is a logical way to master it, you are in the right place. This post will guide you through its most common meanings and offer clear examples so you do not get lost.

Mastering key words like this is the path to gaining fluency. That is why we offer this practical guide that breaks down the use of “get” in English, helping you to understand it once and for all.

The verb “get”: Common uses and meanings

The verb “get” is a true chameleon of the English language. Its meaning changes radically depending on the context, preposition, or type of sentence it is used in. Let’s look at some cases:

• To obtain or receive: this is its most basic meaning. It is a synonym of “receive” or “obtain.”
  • Example: I get a lot of emails every day. (Recibo muchos correos cada día).
• To get to a place: In this case, “get” means “arrive.”
  • Example: We need to get to the airport early. (Necesitamos llegar al aeropuerto temprano).
• To get something: Similar to “buy” or “acquire.”
  • Example: Can you get some milk from the store? (¿Puedes comprar algo de leche en la tienda?).
• To get someone or something to do something: It is used to persuade or convince.
  • Example: I couldn’t get the car to start. (No conseguí que el coche arrancara).
• To understand: In informal contexts, it is a synonym of “understand.”
  • Example: I don’t get it. Can you explain it again? (No lo entiendo. ¿Puedes explicarlo otra vez?).

The verb “get”: Essential phrases and expressions

To master this verb, as well as knowing its meanings, you also need to know the English expressions with ‘get’ that are most frequently used. Here are some of the most common ones:

• Get up: To rise from bed.
  • Example: I always get up at 7 am. (Siempre me levanto a las 7 de la mañana).
• Get on/off: To board/exit public transport.
  • Example: I need to get on the bus now. (Necesito subir al autobús ahora).
• Get married: To marry.
  • Example: They are getting married next month. (Se casarán el próximo mes).
• Get ready: To prepare oneself.
  • Example: Get ready for the party! (¡Prepárate para la fiesta!).
• Get along with: To have a good relationship with someone.
  • Example: I get along with my boss. (Me llevo bien con mi jefe).

Conjugation and forms of the verb “get”

As an irregular verb, the forms of the verb “get” in English are very important. Knowing its conjugation is essential to using it correctly in any tense.

• Simple Present: get (I get, you get, etc.)
• Simple Past: got
  • Example: I got a new phone yesterday. (Ayer me compré un teléfono nuevo).
• Past Participle: got (in British English) or gotten (in American English).
  • Example: I haven’t got any time. (No tengo tiempo). I have gotten better at English. (He mejorado en inglés).
• Gerund: getting
  • Example: I am getting tired. (Me estoy cansando).

Test your knowledge! (exercises)

If you want to practice the different uses of the verb get in English, we invite you to complete these sentences:

1. We _ to the office at 9 am.
2. I need to _ some rest.
3. She is _ married next week.
4. I didn’t _ the joke.
5. They always _ along with their neighbors.

(Solutions: 1. get; 2. get; 3. getting; 4. get; 5. get).

Do you get frustrated with irregular verbs in English?

Mastering an irregular verb like “get” is a step you cannot escape from if you want to speak English fluently.

If you are looking for a way to stop relying on memorization and start using English naturally, our method is designed for you. At bai&by, our English courses are based on a smart, artificial intelligence system that adapts to your pace. We help you to assimilate essential English vocabulary and grammar in a practical way, without stress, with a system 100% tailored to your needs and with the support of a personal tutor.

No matter which English level you have, if you want to know common irregular verbs inside out or need to gain confidence in conversations, we have a solution that adapts to you. Contact us and discover how our intelligent system can help you to achieve your linguistic goals.

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