to get across

USAGE SUMMARY

"to get across" is a correct and common phrase in written English.
It means to communicate something effectively or clearly to someone. Example: "I struggled to get my point across during the meeting, but finally managed to convince the team to take my idea seriously."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"It is quite hard to get across.

The Guardian - Music

That's what I want to get across".

The Guardian - Sport

That's what we hope to get across".

The New York Times

It's a hard moment to get across.

The Guardian

So I'm just relieved, really, to get across the line".

The New York Times - Sports

It's not just a way to get across the water".

The New York Times

"But they understand the message he wanted to get across".

The New York Times

The compulsion to get across that road is unyielding.

The New York Times

The compulsion to get across that road is _________.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"Way too much information to get across," he said.

The New York Times

"Around 200 have managed to get across.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to get across", ensure that the context provides sufficient information for the audience to understand the message. Clarity is key.

Common error

Avoid using overly complex language when trying "to get across" a simple point. Simplicity enhances understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to get across" functions primarily as a prepositional verb phrase, often acting as an infinitive of purpose or result. It indicates the action of successfully communicating an idea, message, or intention. As Ludwig AI explains, it aims to communicate something effectively or clearly to someone.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to get across" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the successful communication of a message or idea. Ludwig AI confirms that it emphasizes clarity and effectiveness in conveying information. It is used across various contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and wiki articles. While maintaining a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal settings, its primary function is to ensure understanding. Related phrases include "to communicate effectively" and "to convey clearly", each subtly altering the emphasis of the communication process. When using "to get across", ensure your message is clear and simple to enhance understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to communicate effectively

Focuses on the effectiveness of the communication process, emphasizing clarity and impact.

to make oneself understood

Emphasizes the effort to ensure that one's message is received and comprehended.

to convey clearly

Emphasizes the clarity and directness of the message being transmitted.

to get through

Similar to "to get across", but often implies overcoming difficulty or resistance in communication.

to express lucidly

Highlights the ease of understanding and coherence in the expression.

to put over

A more informal way to say "to get across", suggesting conveying an idea or message.

to transmit successfully

Focuses on the successful delivery and reception of the message.

to impart understanding

Stresses the goal of achieving comprehension in the recipient.

to bridge the gap

Suggests overcoming a barrier in communication or understanding.

to traverse

Focuses on the act of crossing a physical or metaphorical space.

FAQs

How can I use "to get across" in a sentence?

You can use "to get across" to describe the act of communicating something effectively. For example, "I struggled to get my point across, but eventually the team understood."

What does "to get across" mean?

"To get across" means to successfully communicate or convey a message, idea, or meaning to someone else. It implies ensuring that the intended message is understood.

What can I say instead of "to get across"?

Alternatives include "to communicate effectively", "to convey clearly", or "to make oneself understood", depending on the specific context.

Is "to get across" formal or informal?

"To get across" is generally considered to be neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.