getting engaged

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "getting engaged" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to the act of agreeing to marry someone. Example: They are getting engaged next month. Alternative expressions include "becoming engaged" and "getting married."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

We were getting engaged.

The New York Times

We're pretty much constantly getting engaged.

The New Yorker

"I'm not getting engaged with these stories.

The New York Times

"Getting engaged was more or less a formality".

The New York Times

At least he avoided getting engaged, despite the inviting banners.

The Guardian - Sport

It's more like getting engaged than getting married".

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

They get engaged.

The New Yorker

One just got engaged.

The New York Times

They recently got engaged.

The New York Times

We got engaged.

The New Yorker

They got engaged.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about a couple's engagement, provide context to help the reader understand how they arrived at this decision.

Common error

Avoid assuming the reader understands the nuances and implications of "getting engaged". Be specific and clarify the relevant aspects to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "getting engaged" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its use in describing the action or state of becoming betrothed. The phrase's function is supported by its frequent appearance in news articles and personal stories.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "getting engaged" is a grammatically sound and frequently used gerund phrase that describes the process of a couple agreeing to marry. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread acceptance. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts, maintaining a neutral register. For alternatives, consider "becoming engaged" or, depending on context, idioms like "tying the knot" or "taking the plunge". When using the phrase, ensure the context is clear and that you avoid redundant expressions. Ludwig's examples and analysis provide a comprehensive understanding of its use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

becoming engaged

Focuses on the process of transitioning into the state of engagement.

deciding to marry

Highlights the decision-making process before engagement.

committing to marriage

Emphasizes the aspect of making a firm commitment to enter a marriage.

planning a wedding

Highlights the activities that follow the engagement announcement.

tying the knot

An informal idiom that refers to getting married.

getting hitched

Another informal idiom for getting married, suggesting a sense of commitment.

setting the date

Focuses on the act of scheduling the wedding.

preparing for marriage

Focuses on the preparatory steps and mindset before entering matrimony.

walking down the aisle

Refers to the wedding ceremony itself.

taking the plunge

An idiomatic expression for making a significant, often life-altering, decision such as getting married.

FAQs

How can I use "getting engaged" in a sentence?

You can use "getting engaged" to describe the process of a couple agreeing to marry, as in "They are planning on "getting engaged" next spring".

What's a more formal way to say "getting engaged"?

While "getting engaged" is perfectly acceptable, you could use "becoming engaged" for a slightly more formal tone. Both phrases are widely understood and grammatically sound.

Is it correct to say "getting engaged to be married"?

While technically redundant, saying "getting engaged to be married" isn't incorrect, but it's generally unnecessary. "Getting engaged" already implies the intention to marry.

What's the difference between "getting engaged" and "getting married"?

"Getting engaged" refers to the agreement or promise to marry, while "getting married" refers to the actual act or ceremony of marriage. Engagement precedes marriage.