he is getting

USAGE SUMMARY

"he is getting" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used as part of a present continuous verb tense, which is used to describe an action that is happening at the moment of speaking. Example: He is getting ready for the party tonight.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He is getting sicker.

The New York Times - Health

"He is getting closer.

Independent

He is getting scoring chances.

The New York Times

But he is getting nowhere.

The Economist

Yet, he is getting out.

Independent

But he is getting closer.

The New York Times

But he is getting better.

The New York Times

And he is getting there.

The Economist

He is getting breaks.

The New York Times - Sports

He is getting hammered.

The Guardian - Sport

But he is getting a quick education.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "he is getting", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to receiving something, becoming something, or experiencing something to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "he is getting" in vague contexts. Always specify what he is getting—is it better, worse, a promotion, etc.? Lack of specificity can make your writing unclear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he is getting" functions primarily as part of the present continuous tense, indicating an action or state that is currently in progress. As shown by Ludwig, this encompasses receiving something, experiencing a change, or developing a condition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he is getting" is a very common and grammatically correct expression used to describe ongoing actions, experiences, or processes of change. As noted by Ludwig, it's a versatile phrase applicable in numerous situations, mainly in the News and Media context, ranging from describing health improvements to career advancements. When using this phrase, ensure clarity and specify the object or state being obtained or experienced. By avoiding vague constructions and specifying the nature of change or receipt, writers can use "he is getting" effectively to convey precise and relevant information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he's becoming

Uses 'becoming' to emphasize a process of change, instead of directly receiving something.

he's receiving

Focuses on the act of receiving, whether tangible or intangible.

he's obtaining

Implies a more formal or deliberate acquisition of something.

he's acquiring

Similar to 'obtaining', but often suggests a gradual accumulation.

he's developing

Highlights a progression or evolution, suitable when referring to skills or qualities.

he's earning

Suggests that something is being gained through effort or merit.

he's experiencing

Indicates that someone is undergoing or feeling something.

he's facing

Emphasizes that someone is confronting or dealing with a situation.

he's heading towards

Indicates a direction or trajectory, implying a future outcome.

he is approaching

Focuses on movement closer to a specific point or state.

FAQs

How can I use "he is getting" in a sentence?

"He is getting" is used to describe an ongoing action or a process of receiving, becoming, or experiencing something. For example, "He is getting better at playing the piano" or "He is getting a promotion soon".

What's a more formal alternative to "he is getting"?

Depending on the context, more formal alternatives could include "he is receiving", "he is acquiring", or "he is obtaining".

How does "he is getting" differ from "he gets"?

"He is getting" (present continuous) describes an action in progress, while "he gets" (simple present) describes a habitual action or a general truth. For example, "He is getting good grades" (currently improving) vs. "He gets good grades" (always achieves good grades).

Which is correct, "he is getting better" or "he gets better"?

Both are correct, but they have different meanings. "He is getting better" implies a process of improvement happening now. "He gets better" is less common but could imply that he improves over time generally (e.g. "He gets better with age").