What are the definitions of “get down on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Criticise.
My mother used to GET DOWN ON us for not doing enough homework.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “get down on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb get down on is to criticize someone or something. It means to express disapproval or find fault with someone or their actions.
What are the different verb forms of “get down on”?
| Root Verb | get down on |
| Third Person Singular Present | gets down on |
| Present Participle | getting down on |
| Simple Past | got down on |
| Past Participle | gotten 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.
Example
He is always getting down on his teammates for not practicing enough.
Example
Yesterday, the teacher got down on the students for not doing their homework.
Example
He has gotten down on his friends for not supporting him.
What kind of phrasal verb is “get down on”?
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 down on” 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
She got down on her sister for not helping with the chores.
Example
The coach got down on the team for their poor performance.
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 down on” 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
She got down on her sister for not helping with the chores.
Example
The coach got down on the team for their poor performance.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “get down on”?
Good things to know
Does “get down on” have an informal or formal tone?
Get down on is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, it is better to use synonyms such as 'criticize' or 'reprimand'.
