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get along — 2 meanings

One phrase, 2 meanings. Learn them one at a time, then test yourself.

phrasal verb2 meanings
get along
have a good relationshipmanage or progress

Meaning 1 · most common

have a good relationship

  • get along with sb
Two flatmates laugh together while making breakfast in a sunny kitchen.

To have a friendly or harmonious relationship with someone.

How oftenVery common
LevelB1
Used inMostly spoken

Examples

I get along really well with my older brother.

A: Do you get along with your new roommate?
B: Yeah, she's great. We have a lot in common.

Common mistake

Not: I get along very well with him each other.

Say: We get along very well.

'Get along' is already reciprocal — don't add 'each other'.

More on “have a good relationship”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

In my opinion, it's important to get along with your colleagues because it makes the workplace more enjoyable and productive.

Tell it apart

Do you get along with your sister?

  • have a good relationship

How are you getting along with the report?

  • making progress on it

Goes with

  • get along (with)
Practice saying this
Next meaning: manage or progress

Meaning 2

manage or progress

  • get along with/in/on sth
A scene showing “get along” meaning “manage or cope”.

To deal with a situation or continue doing something, especially when things are difficult.

How oftenCommon
LevelB2
Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

How are you getting along with your new job?

A: How's your project going?
B: I'm getting along, but it's taking longer than I expected.

Common mistake

Not: I'm getting along good without a car.

Say: I'm getting along fine without a car. / managing fine.

Use 'fine/well', not 'good'; this sense means 'managing'.

More on “manage or progress”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

I think I’m getting along quite well in my university courses, although some subjects are more challenging than others.

Tell it apart

We're getting along fine without him.

  • managing okay

We get along fine with him.

  • have a good relationship

Goes with

  • get along (without/with)
Practice saying this
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have a good relationshipmanage or progress