Not all phrasal verbs are complicated, but “get on” is a special case. Despite consisting of just two simple words, it can carry multiple completely different meanings depending on the context.
Understanding what “get on” means will not only help you communicate more naturally but also give you an advantage in IELTS if you can use it appropriately. In this article, IDP will help you explore the meanings and usage of get on through practical examples and real IELTS applications.
1. What Does “Get on” Mean?
Get on is a common phrasal verb in English with various meanings depending on how it is used. In general, it is commonly used to describe:
getting onto a form of transport
making progress in something
having a good relationship with someone
Examples
She doesn’t really get on with her boss.
How are you getting on with your IELTS preparation?
2. Common Structures and Usage of “Get on”
To use get on correctly, you need to understand its common structures and contexts.
Meaning 1: Getting onto transport
This structure is used when you board larger forms of transport, such as buses, trains, planes, or bikes.
Structure
S + get on + bus/train/plane/bike
👉 Use get on for larger vehicles where you can stand or move around. 👉 Use get in for smaller vehicles like cars or taxis.
Examples
We got on the train just before it left.
He got on his bike and rode away.
Meaning 2: Having a good relationship
This is one of the most common meanings, used to describe getting along well with someone.
Structure
S + get on (well) with + someone
Examples
I get on very well with my manager.
Do you get on with your neighbours?
Meaning 3: Continuing or making progress
Used to describe continuing a task or focusing on work without delay.
Structure
S + get on with + something
Examples
Stop chatting and get on with your report.
You can also use it to ask about progress:
How are you getting on (with…)?
Example:
How are you getting on with your project?
Meaning 4: Getting older or succeeding
The structure get on in is used to describe progress over time, especially in age or career.
Structures
get on in years → becoming older
get on in life/career → becoming successful
Examples
He is getting on well in his career.
As people get on in years, they care more about their health.
Meaning 5: Contacting or moving to something
The phrasal verb get on to is used when:
moving to a new topic
contacting someone
Structure
get on to + something/someone
Examples
Let’s get on to the main issue.
I’ll get on to the support team to fix this problem.
3. Synonyms and Antonyms of “Get on”
Learning related vocabulary helps improve your Lexical Resource in IELTS.
Synonyms
board → get onto transport
carry on → continue
make progress → improve
proceed → continue formally
build a good relationship → get along
Antonyms
argue with → have conflict
fall behind → lose progress
get off → leave transport
give up → stop trying
halt → stop
4. Using “Get on” in IELTS Speaking
Using phrasal verbs like get on makes your answers sound more natural and fluent.
IELTS Speaking Part 1
Useful when talking about relationships.
Question: Do you prefer working alone or in a group?
Answer: I’m quite sociable, so I find it easy to get on with others. Working in a team often leads to better results.
IELTS Speaking Part 2
You can use idioms for a stronger impression.
Example: We get on like a house on fire, which is why I enjoy spending time with her.
IELTS Speaking Part 3
Use it carefully alongside more formal vocabulary.
Question: How can people succeed in their careers?
Answer: To get on in one’s career, both qualifications and soft skills are essential.
5. Practice Exercises (With Answers)
Exercise 1
Fill in “get on” with the correct preposition:
Example:
I’m sorry for interrupting. Please get on with your work.
Exercise 2
Rewrite sentences using “get on”:
Example:
My brother and I have a good relationship. → My brother and I get on well.
Use “Get on” Confidently to Improve Your IELTS Score
Understanding “get on” and its different meanings will help you express ideas more naturally and effectively in English.
When used correctly, phrases like:
get on with someone
get on in one’s career
can help you make a strong impression on IELTS examiners.
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