get back

USAGE SUMMARY

"get back" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to returning to a place or situation, or to a person returning to an original state or position. For example: "I need to get back to my desk and finish this report."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Get back, get back.

The New Yorker

Get back in here.

The New Yorker

God, get back.

The New Yorker

OFFICER: Get back!

The New Yorker

"I couldn't get back".

The New York Times - Sports

"How?" "It'll get back.

The New Yorker

Get back to work".

The New York Times - Arts

'Get back here!

The New Yorker

You get back in immediately.

The New York Times

He never would get back.

Independent

"We couldn't get back anyway.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "get back" to indicate a return to a physical location, a previous state, or as a means of retaliation, depending on the context. Ensure the surrounding words clarify the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "get back" without clear context. For example, saying "I'll get back" without specifying when or with what information can be confusing. Be specific about the action or information you are returning with.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get back" functions primarily as a phrasal verb. It has multiple meanings, including returning to a place or state, or retaliating against someone. As Ludwig AI points out, its correct usage is verified through numerous real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "get back" is a versatile and commonly used expression with multiple meanings, ranging from returning to a place or state to retaliating against someone. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts. While generally neutral in register, its specific meaning depends heavily on the context and any prepositions used with it. Its frequent appearance in news and media sources highlights its acceptability in diverse communication settings. For clear and effective communication, ensure that the context clarifies the intended meaning of "get back".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

go back

This alternative is a simple and direct way of indicating a return to a place or state.

come back

This phrase emphasizes the motion towards the speaker or a specific location.

return

This alternative is a more formal and direct way to express the action of going back.

revert

This alternative indicates a return to a former condition or practice.

bounce back

This phrase is used to describe a quick recovery from a setback or difficulty.

reclaim

This option means to get something back that was previously lost or taken away.

retaliate

This option focuses on the revenge aspect of "get back" when someone has been wronged.

recover

This alternative highlights the idea of regaining something lost or returning to a previous state.

make a comeback

This phrase refers to a return to popularity or success after a period of decline.

avenge

This alternative strongly implies taking revenge for a perceived wrong.

FAQs

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

You can use "get back" in several ways, such as: "I need to "get back home" before it gets dark", "I'll "get back to you" with the details tomorrow", or "She plans to "get back at him" for what he did".

What's a more formal alternative to "get back"?

Depending on the context, more formal alternatives to "get back" include "return", "revert", or "reclaim".

Which is correct, "get back" or "got back"?

"Get back" is the base form, used in the present tense or as an infinitive. "Got back" is the past tense form. For example, "I will get back to you" versus "I got back to you yesterday".

How does the meaning of "get back" change with different prepositions?

The meaning of "get back" changes depending on the preposition used. "Get back to" implies returning to a task or topic, "get back at" means to retaliate, and "get back in" suggests re-entering a place or situation.