How to say “get on” like a native speaker
This can mean board a bus or train, progress with a task, or have a good relationship. The words after it determine the meaning.
All phrases · Travel
Hear “get on” in real speech
Clip 1 · VOA Learning English
Philadelphia’s history, Spring green, Lunar landings, Scene · 24:47
About this video
Bryan Lynn and Anna Matteo introduce a VOA Learning English programme about Philadelphia, spring, lunar landings and the word “scene”. The programme includes a discussion of China's moon exploration.
In context
They didn't pay.You've got to pay when you get on a bus.
The police came and took them away.
Clip 2 · Learn English with Bob the Canadian
Let's Learn English! Topic: Action Verbs! 🤲😎🌷 (Lesson Only) · 13:36
About this video
Bob the Canadian teaches action verbs with explanations and examples. He describes physical actions such as punching, kicking and dragging to help learners connect each verb with a movement.
In context
That's part of the first part of my workout routine.So I get on the bike, I put my feet on the pedals.
So the actual spot where you put your foot has the same name as a noun, the pedal.
Clip 3 · BBC Learning English
I enjoy flying ✈️ but airports are stressful 🛄 | Improve your listening with Real Easy English · 5:01
About this video
Becca and Neil discuss airports and flying in this BBC Learning English conversation. Becca talks about a coming trip to Montenegro, while they compare the stressful and relaxing parts of air travel.
In context
Yes. Going through security – my least favourite thing about airports.After security, you wait at the boarding gate and this is the area that you wait at before you get on the plane.
If you catch a flight, it means you successfully get on the plane and fly somewhere, but if you miss a flight,
When to use “get on”
- Describing a commute: “I get on the bus outside the library.”
- Checking progress: “How did you get on with the application?”
Common learner mistake
Use “get on” for a bus or train, but normally “get in” for a car or taxi.
Possible connected-speech patterns in “get on”
The T of “get” links into the vowel of “on”. Some American speakers use a quick tap in this position.
Related phrases
Practise again tomorrow? Get one short sentence a day, ready to record in one tap.
You don't need to speak fast.
A slow line to begin with: listen to how “don’t need to” runs together, then say it at the speaker’s pace.
Free · One email a day · Unsubscribe anytime. Confirm your email to start. We keep only your email, language, time zone and where you signed up.