get behind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get behind" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used as a phrasal verb meaning to support someone or something. Example: I'm truly behind you in this decision; I hope that you know that.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He can get behind?' Yes, he can.

The New York Times

Sound like something you could get behind?

Forbes

McCarthy wouldn't get behind that.

Huffington Post

You get behind and cannot catch up.

WikiHow

Let's get behind him".

The New York Times

This, I can get behind.

Independent

Those we can get behind.

The New Yorker

Then get behind the team.

Independent

Get behind me, get behind me now, anyway".

The New Yorker

That's something I could get behind.

The New York Times - Arts

Get behind Chris for me and Gary".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "get behind" to mean support, ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is being supported. For instance, "We need to get behind the new initiative to improve community relations" is more specific than simply saying "We need to get behind it."

Common error

Avoid using "get behind" in contexts where the intended meaning could be misconstrued as physically positioning oneself behind something, especially in writing where clarity is paramount. For example, instead of saying "Get behind the car", specify "Move to the rear of the car" to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "get behind" primarily functions as a verb phrase expressing support or endorsement for a cause, person, or idea, as seen in many of Ludwig's examples. It can also mean to fail to keep pace. Ludwig AI indicates this is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "get behind" is a versatile phrasal verb with primary meanings of supporting a cause or falling behind. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. Predominantly found in News & Media, it also appears in Wiki and Science contexts. When clarity is needed, especially to differentiate between literal and figurative meanings, carefully consider the surrounding context. To convey similar meanings, one could use alternatives like "support", "endorse", or "fall behind", depending on the intended message. The examples provided offer a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively incorporate "get behind" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

support

Indicates offering help or encouragement, a core aspect of "get behind" when it means to support someone or something.

be in support of

Directly states the act of showing support to someone or something

back

A more concise way to express support or agreement with a cause or person.

endorse

Implies formal approval or backing, similar to showing support but often in an official capacity.

stand by

Suggests loyalty and readiness to defend or support someone during a difficult time.

support someone's cause

Explicitly states the act of backing a particular movement or objective.

line up behind

Emphasizes the act of joining a group to support a common goal.

give encouragement

Focuses on the act of motivating or inspiring someone to continue their efforts.

lag behind

Similar to 'fall behind' but suggests a more gradual decrease in pace or progress.

fall behind

Indicates lagging or failing to keep pace, opposite of 'getting ahead' but still related to progression.

FAQs

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

The phrase "get behind" can be used in several ways. It can mean to support something, as in "We need to "get behind" the new project". It can also mean to lag, as in "I don't want to "fall behind" in my studies".

What's the difference between "get behind" and "support"?

"Get behind" often implies active support or advocacy for something, whereas "support" can be a more general term. For example, you might "support" a candidate with a small donation, but to ""get behind"" them suggests more active involvement, like volunteering or campaigning.

What can I say instead of "I can get behind that"?

Alternatives to "I can get behind that" include "I support that", "I endorse that", or "I agree with that", depending on the level of enthusiasm you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "getting behind" instead of "get behind"?

Yes, "getting behind" is a valid gerund form of the phrase. For example, "Getting behind on your work can cause stress". It is grammatically correct in continuous tenses and as a gerund.