Ask the Editor
The phrasal verb "get to"
Answer
The phrasal verb get to is very common in English.
The most straightforward use ofget to simply means "to arrive":
We have to get to the airport by 6:30.
I didn't get to the party until late.
==
Often, get to means "to be able":
I'd like to get to know her. [=I'd like to meet her and learn about her.]
How do you get to play tennis so well? [=How are you able to play tennis so well?]
They don't get to go on our weekend trip. [=They are not able to go on our weekend trip.]
Some kids don't get to play in the finals. [=Some kids are not able to play in the finals.]
==
Get to can also be an idiom that means "to annoy":
His tone of voice really gets to me sometimes.
All these delays are starting to get to me.
Archive
Link to this page:
You can read more articles in the archive.
As a seasoned linguist and language enthusiast, I bring a wealth of knowledge in the realm of English language intricacies, including the nuanced usage of phrasal verbs. My expertise extends to a deep understanding of idiomatic expressions, grammatical structures, and contextual nuances that make language a fascinating subject for exploration.
Now, delving into the specific topic at hand—the phrasal verb "get to." This versatile expression is a stalwart in everyday English, encompassing various meanings and applications. Let's dissect the key concepts embedded in the provided article:
-
Basic Meaning: "To Arrive"
- The article mentions that the most straightforward use of "get to" is to signify arrival. For instance, "We have to get to the airport by 6:30" and "I didn't get to the party until late" illustrate this usage. In these contexts, "get to" conveys the action of reaching a destination.
-
Alternative Meaning: "To Be Able"
- Another facet of "get to" highlighted in the article is its use to denote capability or permission. Examples such as "I'd like to get to know her" and "They don't get to go on our weekend trip" showcase this meaning. Here, "get to" implies the ability or privilege to meet someone or participate in an activity.
-
Idiomatic Usage: "To Annoy"
- The article introduces an idiomatic usage of "get to" as a means of expressing annoyance. For instance, "His tone of voice really gets to me sometimes" and "All these delays are starting to get to me" illustrate this figurative usage, suggesting a source of irritation or frustration.
Understanding these varied nuances is crucial for grasping the full spectrum of "get to" in different contexts. Whether it's about reaching a destination, expressing capability, or conveying annoyance, this phrasal verb showcases the richness and complexity of the English language. As an expert in linguistics, I encourage language enthusiasts to explore such intricacies to truly appreciate the depth of expression within the English lexicon.
