get even

USAGE SUMMARY

"get even" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize an eye-for-an-eye mentality, or when you want to say that someone is taking revenge. For example: "John was determined to get even with his enemies for the wrongs they had done to him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Don't get even.

University of California, Berkeley

"To get even," he replied.

The New Yorker

Nah, just get even.

The Washington Post

They get even looser.

The Guardian - Opinion

It'll get even better".

The Guardian - Sport

"Now let's get even".

The New York Times

Get even they did.

The New York Times

Voluntary cards get even larger approval ratings.

The Economist

Or relatives can get even more involved.

The New York Times

Things could soon get even better.

The Economist

We so rarely get even that right".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "get even", consider the context and intended audience. While it is a common idiom, it may not be appropriate in formal or professional settings where a more neutral or diplomatic tone is desired.

Common error

Avoid interpreting "get even" as justification for disproportionate or excessive retaliation. While the phrase implies evening the score, ensure the response is reasonable and does not create further harm or escalate the situation.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "get even" is as an idiomatic verb phrase. It typically functions as a verb within a sentence, expressing the action of retaliating or seeking revenge. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

33%

Wiki

32%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "get even" is a very common idiomatic expression used to describe the act of retaliating or seeking revenge. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and usable in written English, particularly when emphasizing an eye-for-an-eye mentality. While widely used in neutral contexts like News & Media, it is crucial to consider the setting and audience, as it might be unsuitable for formal or professional communications. Alternatives such as "seek revenge" or "retaliate" may offer a more nuanced or appropriate tone depending on the situation. As a general guide, remember to avoid disproportionate retaliation when considering the use of "get even".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get revenge

Very similar to "get even" but places more emphasis on the act of revenge itself.

even the score

Focuses on making things equal after a disadvantage or harm.

settle the score

Implies that there's an outstanding debt or imbalance that needs to be resolved through retaliation.

seek revenge

Focuses specifically on the act of taking revenge, implying a deliberate action to retaliate.

take vengeance

Stresses the act of inflicting punishment or harm in return for an injury or wrong.

retaliate

Emphasizes a direct response to an action, often with a similar or greater force.

avenge oneself

Highlights the personal nature of the revenge, emphasizing the individual's need for retribution.

pay back

Suggests a repayment for a wrong, often in a negative way.

exact retribution

A more formal and intense way of describing revenge, suggesting a calculated and severe response.

requite

A formal term suggesting to repay either good or bad deeds, context will imply which.

FAQs

What does "get even" mean?

The phrase "get even" means to retaliate or seek revenge for a wrong that has been done to you. It implies an attempt to balance the score after being wronged.

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

You can use "get even" in a sentence like, "After being cheated, he was determined to "get even" with those who wronged him."

What are some alternatives to "get even"?

Some alternatives to "get even" include "seek revenge", "retaliate", or "settle the score", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "get even" appropriate for formal writing?

While "get even" is a common idiom, it may be too informal for professional or academic writing. Consider using more neutral alternatives like "seek redress" or "correct the imbalance" in formal contexts.