student asking question

Is it possible to say "get a panic" (not "get in a panic")?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Good question. Since "a panic" is considered to be a state or and an emotion you cannot use "get a panic". Similar to the way you would not say "get a happy". You always say get "in a panic" or you simply "panic". Ex: Don't panic! Everything will be okay. Ex: The sound of gunfire panicked the crowd. Ex: The boss always panics over/about the budget every month. Ex: My mother would be in a panic if I came home late.

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