Differences between aim at and get at
Aim at means to direct something towards a specific target or goal, while get at means to imply or suggest something indirectly.
Meanings and Definitions: aim at vs get at
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Aim at
- 1To target.
The magazine is AIMED AT teenagers.
- 2Intend to achieve.
They're AIMING AT reducing costs by ten percent.
Get at
- 1Criticise.
His boss is always GETTING AT him for arriving late.
- 2Mean
What do you think she's GETTING AT? I've no idea what she wants.
- 3Be able to reach, find, access.
It's on the top shelf and I can't GET AT it.
- 4Use threats, payments, bribes, etc, to affect someone's testimony or decision.
The gangsters GOT AT the jury, who found them not guilty of all charges despite the evidence presented in court.
Usage Examples: aim at, get at in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
aim at
Example
The advertisement aims at attracting young customers.
Example
She aims at improving her English skills.
get at
Example
His boss is always getting at him for arriving late.
Example
She gets at her brother for not doing his chores.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Aim at
To direct something towards a specific object or goal.
Example
The archer took aim and tried to hit the target with his arrow.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Get at
To propose or put forward an idea or opinion for consideration.
Example
He suggested that they should go out for dinner instead of staying at home and watching TV.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “get”
Differences in aim at vs get at: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: aim at or get at?
In daily conversation, people use get at more often than aim at. This is because get at is used in various contexts, such as when someone is trying to express their thoughts or feelings without being too direct. Aim at is not used as much in everyday conversation, but it's commonly used in sports, hunting, or shooting activities.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of aim at and get at
Aim at and get at are both informal phrases that can be used in casual conversations. However, get at can also be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, especially when someone wants to express an idea indirectly or diplomatically.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of aim at and get at
The tone of aim at and get at can differ based on context. Aim at often carries a determined or focused tone when related to hitting a target or achieving a goal, while get at typically has a subtle or suggestive tone, especially when referring to expressing an idea indirectly.
