What does the phrasal verb “get back” mean?

What are the definitions of “get back”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Return.

  The train was held up so we didn't GET BACK home until midnight.

• 2. Return something.

  Don't lend him any money; you'll never GET it BACK.

• 3. Revenge.

  He was rude and embarrassed me, but I'll GET him BACK.

• 4. Move away.

  The police told the crowd to GET BACK to allow the ambulance through.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “get back”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb get back is to return to a place or a previous position. It can be used to describe someone returning home after a trip or getting back to a task after a break.

What are the different verb forms of “get back”?

Root Verb	get back
Third Person Singular Present	gets back
Present Participle	getting back
Simple Past	got back
Past Participle	gotten back

Example

I need to get back to work after lunch.

Example

She gets back from her vacation tomorrow.

Example

He is getting back to his normal routine after the holidays.

Example

We got back from our trip last night.

Example

They have gotten back to their usual schedule.

What kind of phrasal verb is “get back”?

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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.)

Transitive verb

“get back” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.

Example

I need to get my keys back from my friend.

Example

She got her book back from the library.

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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 back” 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 need to get my keys back from my friend.

Example

She got her book back from the library.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “get back”?

Get back on track

To return to the right path or direction, especially after a setback or deviation.

Example

After the team meeting, we were able to get back on track with the project.

Get back to someone

To respond or reply to someone at a later time.

Example

I'll get back to you with the information you requested by tomorrow.

Get back together

To reestablish a relationship, especially a romantic one.

Example

After a short break, they decided to get back together and give their relationship another chance.

Good things to know

Does “get back” have an informal or formal tone?

Get back is a neutral to informal phrasal verb. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can be used in both casual and more formal settings, depending on the context. For example, in a professional setting, you might say, 'I'll get back to you with the report,' while in a casual conversation, you might say, 'I can't wait to get back home after this long day.'

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “get back”?

Synonyms

• return
• revert
• recover
• retrieve
• regain
• reclaim
• recoup
• come back

Antonyms

• leave
• depart
• lose
• abandon
• relinquish
• surrender
• go away
• give up