Differences between get on and get down on
Get down on usually means to criticize or express disapproval of someone or something, whereas get on generally means to have a good relationship with someone or to make progress in a task.
Meanings and Definitions: get on vs get down on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Get down on
- 1Criticise.
My mother used to GET DOWN ON us for not doing enough homework.
Usage Examples: get on, get down on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
get on
Example
I need to get on with my homework.
Example
She gets on with her tasks without any complaints.
get down on
Example
Don't get down on yourself for making a mistake.
Example
She always gets down on her brother for not cleaning his room.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Get on
To move forward or make progress in a task or situation.
Example
With dedication and hard work, he was able to advance in his career and become a manager.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Get down on
To express disapproval or find fault with someone or something.
Example
He always criticizes his employees, which makes them feel demotivated and unappreciated.
To have a negative opinion or judgment about someone or something.
Example
Her parents disapprove of her decision to drop out of college and pursue a career in music.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “get”
Phrasal Verbs with “down on”
Differences in get on vs get down on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: get on or get down on?
In daily conversation, people use get on more often than get down on. This is because get on is used for more positive situations such as getting along with someone or making progress in a task. Get down on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about criticizing someone or something. So, while both phrases are used, get on is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of get on and get down on
Get down on 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 on and get down on
The tone of get down on and get on can differ based on context. Get down on often carries a negative or critical tone when related to disapproval or criticism, while get on typically has a positive and encouraging tone, especially when referring to making progress or having a good relationship with someone.
