What does the phrasal verb “get behind” mean?

What are the definitions of “get behind”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Support.

  All the students GOT BEHIND the teacher.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb get behind is to support someone or something, such as a person, idea, or project. It means to show encouragement and help someone achieve their goals.

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

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

Example

I always get behind my friends when they need support.

Example

She gets behind her favorite sports team during every game.

Example

He is getting behind the new project at work.

Example

Yesterday, they got behind the charity event to raise funds.

Example

The community has gotten behind the local school's renovation project.

What kind of phrasal verb is “get behind”?

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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 behind” 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

The employees got behind their manager's new initiative.

Example

The fans got behind their favorite team during the championship game.

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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 behind” 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

The employees got behind their manager's new initiative.

Example

The fans got behind their favorite team during the championship game.

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

Get behind on something

To fall behind schedule or not be able to complete something on time.

Example

I got behind on my work due to the flu, so I have to catch up this week.

Get behind the wheel

To start driving a vehicle or take control of a vehicle.

Example

After passing her driving test, she was excited to get behind the wheel of her new car.

Get behind someone/something

To physically stand or position oneself behind someone or something.

Example

During the group photo, the taller people got behind the shorter ones.

Good things to know

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

Get behind is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal situations, depending on the context.

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

Synonyms

• support
• back
• endorse
• champion
• encourage
• uphold
• sustain
• stand by

Antonyms for {keyword}

• oppose
• discourage
• hinder
• thwart
• obstruct
• block
• undermine
• resist