What are the definitions of “get along”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Have a good relationship.
Why don't you two GET ALONG? You're always arguing.
- 2Leave.
It's late; we must be GETTING ALONG.
- 3Progess.
How's the homework GETTING ALONG?
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “get along”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb get along is to have a good relationship with someone. It means that two or more people can communicate well, cooperate, and enjoy each other's company.
What are the different verb forms of “get along”?
| Root Verb | get along |
| Third Person Singular Present | gets along |
| Present Participle | getting along |
| Simple Past | got along |
| Past Participle | gotten along |
Example
I hope the new coworkers get along well.
Example
She gets along with her classmates.
Example
They are getting along better now that they spend more time together.
Example
We got along well during the project.
Example
They had gotten along since they were kids.
What kind of phrasal verb is “get along”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“get along” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
My dog and cat get along surprisingly well.
Example
The two friends got along despite their differences.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“get along” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
My dog and cat get along surprisingly well.
Example
The two friends got along despite their differences.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “get along”?
Good things to know
Does “get along” have an informal or formal tone?
Get along is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, but it can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the context.
