get across

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get across" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to communicate or convey an idea, message, or opinion to another person. Example sentence: I used analogies to help him get across the concept of oxidation.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

How would we get across?

The New York Times

"It is quite hard to get across.

The Guardian - Music

That's what I want to get across".

The Guardian - Sport

"Around 200 have managed to get across.

The Guardian

When they get across we feel rapture.

The New York Times - Books

You can't get across the border.

The New York Times - Magazine

That's what we hope to get across".

The New York Times

The neuron can't get across that synapse".

The New Yorker

It's a hard moment to get across.

The Guardian

They had to get across the river.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Get across-the-board involvement.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to use "get across" in your writing, ensure that the context clearly indicates whether you mean to communicate effectively or to physically cross something. Clarity is key for effective communication.

Common error

Avoid using "get across" when a more precise verb like "traverse" or "communicate" would better suit the intended meaning. Overusing the phrase can lead to ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "get across" primarily functions as a verb of communication, indicating the successful conveyance of a message or idea. It can also function as a verb of motion, describing the act of physically crossing something. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

81%

Wiki

3%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "get across" is a versatile phrasal verb with two primary meanings: to successfully communicate something or to physically cross something. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and wide applicability in English writing. It's frequently found in news and media, though its formality varies depending on the context. To ensure clarity, consider the specific intent—communication or physical movement—and choose more precise alternatives like "convey" or "traverse" if necessary. Remember to distinguish it from similar phrases and avoid ambiguity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make understood

Focuses on ensuring the message is comprehended.

convey effectively

Focuses on the successful transmission of information or feeling.

communicate clearly

Emphasizes the clarity and understandability of the message.

articulate

Implies expressing oneself in a clear and effective manner.

put over

An informal synonym for successfully communicating an idea.

get through

Highlights the success in reaching someone with a message, often despite difficulties.

express oneself

Highlights the act of communicating one's thoughts or feelings.

cross

Implies moving from one side to another, often physically but can be used figuratively.

bridge the gap

Suggests overcoming a barrier to understanding or communication.

traverse

Suggests a more formal or literal crossing of something.

FAQs

How can I use "get across" in a sentence?

You can use "get across" to mean either to successfully communicate something, as in "I struggled to get my point across", or to physically cross something, as in "We need to find a way to get across the river".

What does "get across" mean when referring to communication?

When referring to communication, "get across" means to successfully convey a message, idea, or feeling so that it is understood by others. For example, "The speaker used clear examples to get her message across".

What are some alternatives to "get across" when referring to communication?

Alternatives to "get across" when referring to communication include "convey effectively", "communicate clearly", or "put over". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to express.

How formal is the phrase "get across"?

"Get across" is generally considered an informal phrase. In more formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "convey effectively" or "articulate" for a more professional tone.