What are the definitions of “get around”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Become known.
It didn't take long for the news to GET AROUND once it got into the newspapers.
- 2Visit many different places.
He GETS AROUND a lot- he's always flying somewhere different.
- 3Walk or go to places.
He's finding it hard to GET AROUND since the operation and spends most of his time at home.
- 4Avoid a problem.
It'll be tricky, but we will find a way to GET AROUND the regulations.
- 5Persuade, convince.
She didn't want to accept my application because it was late, but I managed to GET AROUND her.
- 6Have personal or sexual relationships with many people.
He GETS AROUND a bit; he's always with some new girlfriend.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “get around”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb get around is to visit many different places or to move from one place to another. It can refer to traveling to various locations or simply moving within a specific area.
What are the different verb forms of “get around”?
| Root Verb | get around |
| Third Person Singular Present | gets around |
| Present Participle | getting around |
| Simple Past | got around |
| Past Participle | gotten around |
Example
She likes to get around and explore new cities.
Example
He gets around a lot for his job, visiting clients in different countries.
Example
They are getting around Europe by train during their vacation.
Example
Last year, we got around to several national parks.
Example
She has gotten around to many places during her travels.
What kind of phrasal verb is “get around”?
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 around” 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
I love to get around and see new places.
Example
She gets around the city using public transportation.
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 around” 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
I love to get around and see new places.
Example
She gets around the city using public transportation.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “get around”?
Good things to know
Does “get around” have an informal or formal tone?
Get around is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in everyday conversations. In more formal settings, alternative phrases such as 'travel to different places' or 'circumvent a problem' may be more appropriate.
