Using Phrasal Verbs with Get correctly
Core PathWay
1 🌐 Why Generic Language Fails in Get – Using Phrasal Verbs
Using vague language instead of specific phrasal verbs with ‘get’ creates significant communication problems. When we avoid these precise expressions, our messages become longer, unclear, and often confusing. For example, saying ‘have a good relationship with’ instead of get along with makes communication wordier and less natural. These imprecise alternatives often fail to capture the exact meaning and nuance that phrasal verbs convey. In business contexts, this can lead to misunderstandings, delayed responses, and a general appearance of unprofessionalism. The cost of such imprecise communication includes wasted time clarifying meanings, confused colleagues, and potentially damaged professional relationships.
2 ❌ Poor Communication Example
Hi everyone, I’m writing this email about the new team member situation. I tried to talk to Jane about the project yesterday, but I couldn’t make her understand what I meant. I guess I’ll try again later. I need to tell you that Tom and Bill aren’t really having a good relationship – they just can’t seem to work together nicely. I’ve been meaning to do the quarterly report, but I haven’t started it yet. I should probably start working seriously on it soon. I’m worried about Mark – he’s been doing some strange things lately and nobody knows what he’s been busy with. Sarah keeps avoiding her presentation duties, and she somehow never gets punished for not doing her part. I really need to finish this difficult conversation with the client – I just want to make it happen quickly so it’s done. By the way, Lucy has started really liking the new marketing project, and she spends all her time on it now. When I have a chance, I’ll give you more information about all of this.
3 🔍 Reflection Challenge
Look at Sam’s email and consider how it could be improved using specific phrasal verbs with ‘get’. Which parts of the message seem particularly unclear or wordy? Where could precise phrasal verbs from the list below make the communication more efficient? Now re-write Sam’s message using some of the phrasal verbs and then check your writing with our corrected version on the page 2 link below.