get around

USAGE SUMMARY

"get around" is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English.
You can use it to mean, to move around in order to accomplish something or to avoid a restriction, e.g. "We need to find a way to get around the new border regulations".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You gotta get around".

The New York Times

They get around".

The New York Times

You couldn't get around anymore".

The New York Times

I can get around, though.

The New York Times - Arts

(She seems to get around).

The New York Times

"Things get around".

The New York Times

and "I Get Around".

The New York Times

How does everyone get around?

Stanford University

How do the delivery teams get around?

The New York Times

How else can I get around?

Independent

So how do you get around?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "get around" to mean 'avoid', be sure the context clearly indicates what is being avoided. Using specific nouns makes the sentence stronger.

Common error

Avoid using "get around" in formal writing where a more precise verb like "travel", "navigate", or "evade" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "get around" primarily functions as an intransitive verb indicating movement or the ability to travel. It can also function transitively, meaning to evade or circumvent something. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is grammatically sound and versatile.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "get around" is a versatile expression used to convey various meanings, including movement, evasion, and general mobility. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely acceptable. Its frequency across different contexts makes it a common phrase in both spoken and written English. While generally neutral in tone, it is essential to consider the specific context to ensure that the intended meaning is clear and the level of formality is appropriate. For more formal contexts, consider alternatives such as "travel", "navigate", "circumvent", or "bypass".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

move around

This alternative focuses on the physical action of moving from one place to another.

travel about

This suggests a more general sense of traveling to different places.

circumnavigate

This implies finding a way around an obstacle or problem.

bypass

This suggests avoiding something, such as a rule or regulation.

circumvent

Similar to bypass, but often implies a more clever or strategic avoidance.

manage to avoid

This focuses on successfully preventing something from happening.

find a workaround

This refers to finding a solution that bypasses a problem.

be mobile

This refers to being able to move easily.

tour

This implies visiting multiple places in a specific area.

evade

This suggests avoiding something with skill or cunning.

FAQs

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

You can use "get around" to mean to move from place to place, as in "How do you "get around" without a car?" or to avoid something, as in "We need to "get around" the regulations."

What does "get around" mean when referring to a person?

When referring to a person, "get around" can mean that someone travels a lot, or, informally, that someone is sexually promiscuous. Be mindful of the context to avoid misinterpretation.

What are some alternatives to "get around" when discussing travel?

When discussing travel, you can use alternatives like "move around", "travel", or "navigate depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "get around" in formal writing?

While "get around" is commonly used and understood, it may be too informal for some formal writing contexts. Consider using more precise verbs like "circumvent" or "bypass" for a more professional tone.