Get Used To – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever moved to a new city, started a night shift, or tried eating spicy food for the first time—and felt uncomfortable at first, but then gradually adjusted? In English, we say you got used to it! This essential phrasal verb describes the process of becoming familiar, comfortable, or accustomed to something new, different, or initially strange.
What Does “Get Used To” Mean?
“Get used to” means to become comfortable or familiar with a new situation, habit, environment, or condition over time. Think of it like your eyes adjusting to a dark room: at first, everything feels unfamiliar, but soon you can see clearly. The phrase isn’t about liking something immediately—it’s about adaptation through time and exposure.
When to Use It
Use this phrase in casual or empathetic conversations when talking about change—like new jobs, cultures, routines, climates, or even sounds (“I finally got used to the traffic noise!”). It’s common in real-life stories, advice, and supportive chats. This phrasal verb is informal but universally used—great for everyday English, not formal writing.
Example Sentences
- It took me weeks to get used to waking up at 5 a.m.
- She’s still getting used to life in a new country.
- You’ll get used to the spicy food—it just takes time!
- I’ll never get used to seeing my teacher in yoga pants!
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “How’s your new office job?”
Jamie: “Exhausting! But I’m slowly getting used to the schedule.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t confuse “get used to” with “be used to.” Both are correct, but they work differently:
• “Get used to” = the process of adjusting (e.g., “I’m getting used to it”).
• “Be used to” = already comfortable (e.g., “I’m used to it now”).
Also, remember: “to” is a preposition here, so it must be followed by a noun, pronoun, or -ing verb—not a base verb.
❌ Don’t say: “I’m getting used to wake up early.”
✅ Do say: “I’m getting used to waking up early.”
Practice Tip
Next time you’re adjusting to something new—like a new phone, time zone, or roommate—say: “I’m still getting used to it.” It’s a natural, honest way to describe adaptation in English.
Final Note
Now you can use “get used to” to talk about change with patience and realism! It’s a compassionate phrase that honors the time it takes to adapt. Keep using it—and remember, everyone gets used to things at their own pace. You’ve got this!