The English language is renowned for its complexity, and the verb “get” is a prime example of this. This versatile word can be used in a variety of tenses and contexts, making it a crucial element for English learners to understand. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the advanced details and grammatical specifications of using “get” in different tenses, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate this linguistic nuance with confidence.
1. Obtain, Take, Receive
The most common use of “get” is to express the act of obtaining, taking, or receiving something. Let’s explore the different tenses in which this usage can occur:
- Present Tense: I need to get some files from the archives.
- Past Tense: She got the train to work every day.
- Past Participle: Did you get my message?
2. Phrasal Verbs with ‘Get’
The verb “get” is often combined with prepositions or adverbs to form phrasal verbs, each with its own unique meaning. These phrasal verbs are essential for fluent English communication. Here are some examples:
| Phrasal Verb | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Get on | Enter a train/bus/plane/boat/bike | Here’s the bus. Let’s get on. |
| Get off | Descend from a train/bus/plane/boat/bike | We got off the plane and went to passport control. |
| Get in | Enter a car, swimming pool or container | He got in the car and put on his seatbelt. |
| Get out | Exit from a car, swimming pool or container | Ok kids, we’ve arrived. You can get out now. |
| Get up | Leave your bed in the morning | They usually get up at 7:30. |
| Get back | Return | We should get back by 7:30. Can you wait for us? |
| Get over | Recover from a sickness or difficult situation | I had flu last week but I’ve got over it now. |
| Get on/along with | Have a good relationship | Do you get on with your colleagues? |
| Get across | Successfully communicate an idea | I’m not sure I got my ideas across in the meeting. |
| Get by | Survive, manage | My French isn’t good but I know enough to get by. |
| Get through | Make contact with | She can’t get through to Mr Black. The line’s engaged. |
| Get away with | Do something and not be caught or punished | He stole some money from the firm but no one found out so he got away with it. |
3. Passive Form with ‘Get’
The verb “get” can also be used in the passive voice, often in a more informal or colloquial manner. Here’s how it compares to the formal passive:
- Informal Passive: Their car got stolen last night.
- Formal Passive: Their car was stolen last night.
4. ‘Have Got’
The phrase “have got” is another way to express possession or ownership in English. It can be used in various tenses:
- Present Tense: She’s got a new car. It’s beautiful.
- Past Tense: Have you got any brothers and sisters?
- Past Participle: I’ve got a cold. I need some tissues.
5. Additional Uses
The versatility of “get” extends beyond the previously mentioned usages. Here are some other common applications:
- To Reach or Arrive: How long did it take you to get to the top of the mountain?
- To Become: Don’t get angry!
- To Have Something Done: I’m going to get a new suit made specially for my wedding.
6. American English
In American English, the usage of “get” can differ slightly from British English. Here are a couple of examples:
- Present Perfect: I have gotten a new job.
- Past Participle: I got tired of all this nonsense.
Examples
To solidify your understanding, let’s look at some practical examples:
- Past Tense: I got the last two loaves of bread in the shop.
- Present Perfect: I’ve got three Rolls Royces and a Bentley.
- Passive: Sorry I’m late, the train got delayed.
By mastering the diverse uses of “get” in English tenses, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively and confidently in a wide range of contexts. Remember to practice these concepts regularly, and don’t hesitate to refer back to this comprehensive guide whenever you need a refresher.
References
- Wall Street English. (n.d.). The different uses of ‘get’. Retrieved from https://www.wallstreetenglish.com/exercises/the-different-uses-of-get
- English Stack Exchange. (2016, May 23). Can you use “get” in a past tense sentence? Retrieved from https://english.stackexchange.com/questions/327413/can-you-use-get-in-a-past-tense-sentence
- Linguapress. (n.d.). Get and got | meanings and uses in English. Retrieved from https://linguapress.com/grammar/get-got.htm
- Oxford House Barcelona. (2020, May 27). 6 Different Uses Of The Word ‘Get’. Retrieved from https://oxfordhousebcn.com/en/6-different-uses-of-the-word-get/
- EF Global Site. (n.d.). The verb “to get”. Retrieved from https://www.ef.com/wwen/english-resources/english-grammar/verb-get/
Hi…. I am Goutam Datta. I have completed a double M. A. in English and B. Ed. I am a creative writer. Currently, I am a part of the LambdaGeeks.