What does the phrasal verb “get on with” mean?

What are the definitions of “get on with”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Have a good relationship.

  Fortunately, I GET ON WITH my boss.

• 2. Continue or start doing something.

  She told us to GET ON WITH our work.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb get on with is to continue doing something, especially after an interruption. It is often used when someone wants to start or continue a task or activity without further delay.

What are the different verb forms of “get on with”?

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

Example

I need to get on with my homework.

Example

She always gets on with her tasks without complaining.

Example

He is getting on with his project after a short break.

Example

Yesterday, they got on with the meeting after the interruption.

Example

The work has been gotten on with after the lunch break.

What kind of phrasal verb is “get on with”?

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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.)

Intransitive verb

“get on with” 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

After the break, we got on with the meeting.

Example

She got on with her work after the phone call.

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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 on with” 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

After the break, we got on with the meeting.

Example

She got on with her work after the phone call.

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

Get on with it

A phrase often used to tell someone to hurry up and continue what they were doing or start doing what they are supposed to do.

Example

Stop wasting time and get on with it!

Get on with someone

To have a good relationship with someone.

Example

I get on with my colleagues very well.

Get on with life

To continue living one's life, especially after a tragic or traumatic event.

Example

After the accident, it was hard for him to get on with life.

Good things to know

Does “get on with” have an informal or formal tone?

Get on with is a neutral phrasal verb. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. However, the phrase 'get on with it' is often used in more informal and casual situations.

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

Synonyms

• proceed
• continue
• resume
• persist
• maintain
• sustain
• persevere
• pursue
• carry on
• keep up

Antonyms

• stop
• halt
• cease
• discontinue
• pause
• break
• interrupt
• end
• quit
• terminate