getting drunk

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "getting drunk" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing alcohol consumption or the effects of drinking. Example: "After a long week at work, he decided to spend Saturday night getting drunk with his friends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'm getting drunk in Ireland.

The Guardian - Music

"Are you getting drunk, Herb?

The New Yorker

Getting drunk is lovely.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Getting drunk is fun.

The New York Times - Books

He was getting drunk.

The New Yorker

But they are never getting drunk.

University of California, Berkeley

"I'm getting drunk," he said.

The New York Times

"Getting drunk required careful planning," it begins.

The New Yorker

But these aren't teenagers getting drunk.

The Washington Post

Getting drunk all the time," she remembers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

People were getting drunk, using drugs.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about the consequences of alcohol consumption, use “getting drunk” to directly address the act of becoming intoxicated. This phrase is widely understood and contextually appropriate.

Common error

While there are many informal ways to describe “getting drunk”, using vague or euphemistic language can dilute the impact of your message, especially when discussing serious topics like health or safety. Be direct to ensure clear communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "getting drunk" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It describes the process of becoming intoxicated by alcohol. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "getting drunk" is a common and grammatically correct gerund phrase used to describe the process of becoming intoxicated. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and media, with a neutral to informal register. While there are many alternatives, such as "becoming intoxicated" or "drinking heavily", the choice depends on the desired level of formality and the specific nuance you wish to convey. When clarity is paramount, especially in sensitive contexts, direct language is preferable to euphemisms. Keep in mind that excessive use can be detrimental for effectiveness in any context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

becoming intoxicated

Focuses on the process of reaching an intoxicated state; slightly more formal.

getting inebriated

Similar to intoxicated, suggesting a formal tone but still related to the state of being drunk.

drinking heavily

Emphasizes the quantity of alcohol consumed, leading to being drunk.

overindulging in alcohol

Highlights excessive consumption, implying a negative consequence.

consuming too much alcohol

A straightforward description of excessive alcohol intake.

boozing it up

An informal way of saying "getting drunk", implies heavy drinking.

going on a bender

Suggests a prolonged period of "getting drunk" over several days.

tying one on

An idiomatic expression for "getting drunk", suggesting a deliberate act.

bending the elbow

An idiomatic and more figurative expression for "getting drunk".

hitting the sauce

Suggests a regular or habitual pattern of "getting drunk".

FAQs

What does "getting drunk" mean?

"Getting drunk" refers to the process of becoming intoxicated by alcohol, resulting in impaired physical and mental control.

What's a less direct way to say "getting drunk"?

You could use terms like "becoming intoxicated", "drinking heavily", or "overindulging in alcohol" to soften the tone.

Is it ever inappropriate to use the phrase "getting drunk"?

Yes, using "getting drunk" may be inappropriate in formal or professional settings where a more neutral or clinical term like "alcohol intoxication" is preferred.

What are the potential consequences of "getting drunk"?

The consequences of "getting drunk" can range from mild impairment to severe health risks, including impaired judgment, loss of coordination, alcohol poisoning, and long-term liver damage.