Differences between get by and get on
While both get by and get on refer to managing or coping with a situation, get by usually means to manage with limited resources or to barely survive, while get on generally means to manage or cope with a situation in a more general sense.
Meanings and Definitions: get by vs get on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Get by
- 1Have just enough money to live on.
They're finding it increasingly difficult to GET BY since their daughter was born.
- 2Not be noticed ( problems, errors, etc ).
I had checked it, but there still were a few mistakes that didn't GET BY the editor.
Get on
- 1Continue doing something.
The teacher asked the pupils to GET ON with some work quietly as she had to leave the classroom.
- 2Enter a bus, train, plane, etc..
We GOT ON the train at Plymouth and went up to London.
- 3Make progress, deal with something with a reasonable degree of success.
How are you GETTING ON with your Spanish lessons?
- 4Have a good relationship.
We have always GOT ON well.
- 5Become old, age.
He's GETTING ON now and doesn't work so hard.
- 6Be late or near an arranged time.
I must get home now; it's GETTING ON.
- 7Wear, fit.
I have put so much weight on that I couldn't GET my old suits ON.
- 8Leave.
I must be GETTING ON; I have other things to do this evening.
Usage Examples: get by, get on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
get by
Example
I'm not rich, but I can get by with my current salary.
Example
She gets by on a tight budget every month.
get on
Example
I need to get on with my homework.
Example
She gets on with her tasks without any complaints.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Get by
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Get on
handle
To manage or deal with a situation effectively.
Example
He was able to handle the pressure of the deadline by breaking down the tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
To handle or deal with a situation successfully.
Example
Despite the setbacks, they were able to manage the project and deliver it on time.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “get”
Phrasal Verbs with “on”
Differences in get by vs get on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: get by or get on?
In daily conversation, people use get by and get on with similar frequency. Both phrases are commonly used in everyday interactions, but their usage may vary depending on the context.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of get by and get on
Get by and get on are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of get by and get on
The tone of get by and get on can differ based on context. Get by often carries a tone of struggle or hardship when related to managing with limited resources, while get on typically has a more neutral or positive tone, especially when referring to managing or coping with a situation.
