What are the definitions of “get onto”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Start discussing a topic.
We didn't GET ONTO the third item on the agenda.
- 2Be elected, appointed.
He didn't GET ONTO the committee.
- 3Appear on the radio or TV.
He GOT ONTO every major channel after the accident.
- 4Contact someone because you need or want them to do something.
We'd better GET ONTO someone to fix this.
- 5Enter a plane, train, etc.
She GOT ONTO the plane just before it took off.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “get onto”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb get onto is to start discussing a topic or to begin to consider something. For example, it can mean starting to talk about a new subject in a conversation, meeting, or discussion.
What are the different verb forms of “get onto”?
| Root Verb | get onto |
| Third Person Singular Present | gets onto |
| Present Participle | getting onto |
| Simple Past | got onto |
| Past Participle | gotten onto |
Example
Let's get onto the next topic of our meeting.
Example
She always gets onto the main point quickly in her presentations.
Example
We are getting onto the final part of our project.
Example
Yesterday, we got onto the subject of climate change in our science class.
Example
We have gotten onto the topic of renewable energy sources in our discussion.
What kind of phrasal verb is “get onto”?
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 onto” 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
We got onto the subject of global warming.
Example
She got onto the train just in time.
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 onto” 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
We got onto the subject of global warming.
Example
She got onto the train just in time.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “get onto”?
Good things to know
Does “get onto” have an informal or formal tone?
Get onto is a neutral phrasal verb. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. In a formal setting, it might be used in a business meeting to suggest moving to a new topic. In an informal context, it could be used to describe entering a vehicle or contacting someone.
