Understanding the Phrasal Verb "Get By"
In the English language, phrasal verbs can be tricky because they often carry multiple meanings depending on the context. One of the most versatile and frequently used phrasal verbs you will encounter is get by. Whether you are talking about squeezing through a crowd, managing your finances, or avoiding trouble, understanding how to use this phrase will make your English sound much more natural and precise.
The Many Meanings of "Get By"
The term get by is a multi-purpose tool in conversation. Here are the three most common ways native speakers use it:
1. Moving Past Something
In a literal sense, get by means to move past an obstacle or person. It suggests that there is a physical barrier or another object blocking your path, and you have successfully maneuvered around it.
- "Excuse me, could I just get by you to reach the door?"
- "The runner had to push hard to get by the lead competitor in the final stretch."
2. Managing or Surviving
Perhaps the most common usage of get by refers to the ability to survive or function with limited resources. It implies that while you might not have an abundance of something—like money, time, or supplies—you have just enough to manage the situation.
- "It was a difficult month, but we managed to get by on our savings."
- "I don't speak perfect French, but I know enough to get by when I'm traveling in Paris."
3. Avoiding Consequences
Sometimes, get by is used to describe avoiding an unpleasant result after doing something wrong or breaking a rule. In this context, it is closely related to the phrase "get away with."
- "He didn't study for the exam, but he managed to get by with a passing grade."
- "Do you really think you can get by without finishing your assignments on time?"
Grammar Patterns and Tips
Get by is an intransitive phrasal verb. This means it does not take a direct object. You cannot say "I get by the money"; instead, you must use a preposition to connect the verb to the object.
When talking about surviving with limited resources, we typically use the preposition on:
- "How do you get by on such a small salary?"
When talking about physical movement, we often use the preposition with or simply rely on the context of the location:
- "I couldn't get by because the hallway was blocked."
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One frequent mistake learners make is confusing get by with get away with. While they can sometimes overlap in meaning regarding "avoiding consequences," they are not identical. Get away with suggests doing something wrong and not being punished for it. Get by suggests that you are doing the bare minimum to succeed or survive.
Another error is using it transitively. Always remember that you need a preposition like on, with, or in if you are going to mention the resource you are using to survive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "get by" considered formal or informal?
It is generally considered informal or conversational. You would likely use it in a friendly chat or a casual email, but you might choose a more precise word like "subsist" or "survive" in a very formal academic paper.
Can "get by" be used in the past tense?
Yes, because "get" is an irregular verb, the past tense becomes "got." For example: "We got by on very little food during the hiking trip."
What is the difference between "get by" and "get along"?
"Get along" usually refers to having a good relationship with someone. "Get by" focuses on personal survival, managing resources, or physical movement. They are rarely interchangeable.
Conclusion
Mastering get by is a great way to improve your fluency. Whether you are navigating a crowded street or explaining how you manage a busy schedule, this simple phrasal verb helps you communicate your point clearly and concisely. By practicing these different contexts, you will soon find yourself using it as naturally as a native speaker.