got on better

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "got on better" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where two or more people have a more positive or harmonious relationship compared to others. Example: "Despite their differences, they got on better than anyone expected during the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Though these links aren't very clearly made, the book does offer a workable answer to one niggling question: why haven't women got on better since they got the vote?

The Guardian - Opinion

I started working, I got on better with Ranga".

The Guardian

We Muslims have always got on better with the Jews than you Christians.As for centuries was true.

The Economist

His broad thesis was that Tony Blair and Gordon Brown were close in their politics and got on better than some of the "garbage" reporting suggested.

Independent

To regain his self-esteem after a girl jilted him he went to a brothel where he got on better than he expected.

The New Yorker

Never have I got on better with my flatmates than when our landlord installed a dodgy deadlock and locked us out of our flat for a full Friday evening.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Carter started the meeting by saying he wanted to find a way to get on better.

The New York Times

He was even getting on better with his mother who came to all the training sessions".

BBC

Goals coded as "1" are those which specify an action in a specific life domain, but which could be divided into further sub-tasks (e.g., "get fit", "eat sensibly" "get on better with my family").

Cognitive Therapy and Research

"We get on better now".

The Guardian

Europeans generally get on better with Democrats than Republicans.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "got on better" to describe improved interpersonal dynamics, whether between individuals, groups, or even nations. It implies a positive change in the way people interact.

Common error

Avoid using "got on better" when describing purely transactional or superficial interactions. This phrase is best suited for relationships that have some depth or history.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "got on better" functions as a verb phrase, specifically indicating an improvement in relationships or interactions. Ludwig confirms this usage, highlighting the common and correct application of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

10%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "got on better" is a phrasal verb indicating an improved relationship or level of compatibility between individuals or groups. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage in various contexts, particularly in news and media. The phrase is generally considered neutral in register and effectively communicates a positive change in interpersonal dynamics. While relatively uncommon, understanding its proper usage can enhance clarity and precision in writing and conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

had a better relationship

Emphasizes the relationship aspect more directly.

got along better

A more informal and common alternative.

related better

Focuses on the ability to connect and understand each other.

were more compatible

Highlights the compatibility between individuals.

had a better understanding

Focuses on improved comprehension and agreement.

connected more effectively

Emphasizes the efficiency of their interaction.

established a better rapport

Highlights the development of a harmonious connection.

improved their relations

A more formal way of expressing the improvement in relationships.

cultivated a better relationship

Focuses on the effort put into improving the relationship.

enjoyed a better dynamic

Highlights the positive interaction and energy between individuals.

FAQs

How can I use "got on better" in a sentence?

You can use "got on better" to describe an improvement in a relationship. For example, "After the mediation, the siblings "got on better" than before".

What's a more formal alternative to "got on better"?

A more formal alternative would be "improved their relations" or "established a better rapport".

Is it correct to say "get on better"?

Yes, "get on better" is the infinitive form. For example, "They hope to "get on better" in the future".

What's the difference between "got on better" and "got along better"?

The phrases ""got on better"" and "got along better" are largely interchangeable and have similar meanings. The choice often depends on personal preference or regional dialect.