gets on a bit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gets on a bit" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in informal contexts to indicate that something is becoming tiresome or annoying over time. Example: "The constant delays in the project really gets on a bit after a while."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Doctor Who is a children's show about a time-travelling alien who can regenerate like a slick bit of liver when he gets on a bit, accompanied by the kind of plucky sidekick whose school days were spent hiding behind a ringbinder, lost in fantasy about one day holding her geography teacher's hand on the deck of a P&O ferry.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The Pythons might getting on a bit, but they still know how - and want - to put on a show.

BBC

Yes, they're getting on a bit — thirty-one and thirty, respectively, which is, like, seventy-something, in pro-tennis years.

The New Yorker

Clumsy Ninja Android/iOS (Free + IAP) Clumsy Ninja may be getting on a bit now but it remains one of the most innovative character-driven games on mobile.

The Guardian - Tech

We're all getting on a bit".

Independent

Getting on a bit, are we?

Independent

"He is getting on a bit now.

Independent

"He is, however, getting on a bit.

Independent

Noah Baumbach is getting on a bit.

The Guardian - Film

He is getting on a bit.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"I'm getting on a bit.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gets on a bit" to subtly indicate that something or someone is aging or becoming slightly worn, but not necessarily in a negative way. It's best suited for informal and conversational contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "gets on a bit" in formal writing or professional communications. It's more appropriate to use more direct and neutral language like "is aging" or "is becoming dated" in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gets on a bit" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe the process of aging or becoming worn, often in a gentle or humorous way. It implies that something or someone is not as young or new as they once were. Ludwig examples highlight its use in describing people, objects, and even abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the idiom "gets on a bit" is a common phrase, mainly used in British English to describe aging or becoming worn, often with a touch of humor. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in written English, advising it's more suitable for informal contexts, while formal writing benefits from direct alternatives like "is aging". While used across various media, its prevalence is strongest in news and lifestyle contexts. It's best to avoid this phrase in formal and business writing. Ludwig examples showcase its use in describing people, objects, and even abstract concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is getting old

Directly refers to the process of aging, similar to "gets on a bit".

is growing older

Another straightforward way of indicating the process of aging.

is aging

Focuses specifically on the aspect of growing older.

is not as young as it used to be

A more descriptive way of saying something is aging.

is becoming tiresome

Highlights the aspect of something becoming annoying or wearisome.

is starting to show its age

Indicates that something is beginning to exhibit signs of aging or wear.

is progressing

Emphasizes the forward movement or advancement in a process, which can include aging or deterioration.

is showing wear and tear

Focuses on the visible signs of aging or use.

is past its prime

Implies that something has already reached its best condition and is now declining.

is losing its edge

Suggests a decline in effectiveness or sharpness, often associated with aging.

FAQs

What does "gets on a bit" mean?

The phrase "gets on a bit" is a British English idiom that generally means someone or something is aging, becoming old, or perhaps declining slightly in condition or performance.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "gets on a bit"?

It is most appropriate in informal settings or casual conversations. It may not be suitable for formal writing or professional contexts where more precise language is preferred.

What are some alternative phrases I can use instead of "gets on a bit"?

You can use alternatives like "is aging", "is getting old", or "is becoming tiresome" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "gets on a bit" a formal or informal expression?

"Gets on a bit" is an informal expression typically used in British English. In more formal settings, it's better to use phrases that are more direct and less idiomatic.