Definition of Get (meaning 1 of 5 — verb)
Quick Meaning of Get
To receive or obtain something; to come to have or own something you want.
Detailed Definition of Get
To obtain, receive, or acquire something that you did not have before.
How to Pronounce Get
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: One short syllable with /ɛ/ vowel like in 'bed', followed by /t/ sound. Stress falls on the single syllable.
Watch out: Sometimes pronounced with long 'e' /giːt/; should be short /ɛ/ like 'bet' or 'pet'.
Other Meanings of Get
“Get” has 5 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 4:
#2 Get as a verb
to gradually change into a different state or feel a certain way; to become
get tired
#3 Get as a verb
to reach or come to a specific location; to move from one place to another
get home
#4 Get as a verb
To become sick with an illness or receive a score, punishment, or injury.
get a cold
#5 Get as a verb
To understand or figure out what someone means or what something means.
get the idea
Origin and Etymology of Get
From Old Norse 'geta' meaning to beget or obtain; widely used in Germanic languages.
How to Use Get in a Sentence
Each example shows “get” in the meaning “To receive or obtain something; to come to…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
-
“I get a new bicycle every few years.”
-
“Can you get some milk from the store?”
-
“Students get their exam results by email next week.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Get
Common Synonyms for Get
Smart Synonyms for Get — When to Use Each
- obtain
- for formal or written contexts requiring something
- receive
- for when something is given to you by
- acquire
- for gradually coming to own or possess something
Antonyms of Get
Common Collocations with Get
These phrases pair with “get” in everyday English:
- get help
- get permission
- get a chance
- get an idea
- get dressed
Common Mistakes When Using Get
Even fluent speakers slip up with “get”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She needs to get up very late today.
- ✓ Correct: She needs to get up very early today.
- Why: 'Get up' means to wake and rise from bed. Use 'early' for morning time, not 'late'.
- ✗ Wrong: I get the job at the company.
- ✓ Correct: I got the job at the company.
- Why: Use past tense 'got' to describe a completed action. Present tense 'get' is for current situations.
Words Confused With Get
- Get vs Fetch: Get means to obtain; fetch means to go bring back something from another location.
Other Forms of Get
Frequently Asked Questions About Get
What is the meaning of "Get"?
To receive or obtain something; to come to have or own something you want.
How do you pronounce "Get"?
The IPA is /ɡɛtʃ/. One short syllable with /ɛ/ vowel like in 'bed', followed by /t/ sound. Stress falls on the single syllable.
What part of speech is "Get"?
"Get" is a verb at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Get"?
Common synonyms include obtain, receive, acquire.
How do you use "Get" in a sentence?
For example: "I get a new bicycle every few years."