Below you will find two of the uses of the phrasal verb 'Get on' which you are likely to find used in the Cambridge Advanced exam.

In addition to the meaning/definition for each use, you will also find two examples of it being used with each meaning (to help you better understand its use and the context it is used in).

In order to remember these uses, make sure to make an example in your own words with the phrasal verb.

Use 1

To say that you have a good or friendly relationship with somebody (you like being with the other person).

I wish I was like my brother, he GETS ON with everybody. It doesn't matter who they are, they enjoy being with him.

"Do you GET ON with your neighbours?"
"Some yes and others no. With our next door neighbours we GET ON really well with them. They sometimes invite us to their house for food."

Click here to watch a YouTube video on this meaning of the phrasal verb

Use 2

To ask how somebody is doing or progressing in their life or with a particular thing (e.g. a piece of work, a new situation etc...).

"How's your sister GETTING ON living in Rome?"
"She's doing ok. It's different to here, but she likes it there."

"How is Simon GETTING ON since the divorce?"
"He has good days and bad days, but I think he's getting better."

Click here to watch a YouTube video on this meaning of the phrasal verb


Return to the list of 50 commonly phrasal verbs in the CAE exam.