Get On

1. When you move your body and either stand, sit, lie, kneel, etc. towards something (non-separable).

Examples: The bank robber yelled “get on the floor!”
We used a ladder to get on the roof.

2. When you board a train, bus, airplane, etc. where you walk to your seat (non-separable, NOT used with cars).

Examples: Ben and Jerry got on the train to visit their mother in Oregon.
I was getting on the subway, when they announced that it was closed.

3. When you leave (more common in British English).

Examples: I should be getting on, my girlfriend’s waiting for me in the car.
I need to get on now, see you guys later!

4. To put clothes on (we almost always use phrasal verbs for this action).

Examples: If I gain one more pound, I’m afraid I won’t be able to get my old jeans on.
Let me get my shoes on, and I’ll be ready to leave.

5. When you have a good relationship with someone.

Examples: Is everyone getting on with the new boss?
I have always got on well with my colleagues. In fact, we’re all going on a trip together soon.

6. To continue an activity after a pause.

Examples: Francis’ mother to him that he needs to get on with his English homework.
Stop talking and concentrate! You need to be getting on with your reading.

See our complete list of English phrasal verbs.