Another Word for Gets – Meaning, Synonyms, and Examples
The word gets (the third-person singular present tense of get) is one of the most common and versatile verbs in English, covering meanings like receives, acquires, understands, or obtains. To make your English more varied and specific, learning another word for gets will help. Using synonyms allows you to specify the exact nature of the receiving or acquiring.
What is Another Word for Gets?
A great synonym for gets (in the sense of receives or obtains) is acquires. Gets means to obtain, acquire, or receive (something). Acquires means to gain (something, often something abstract like knowledge or a skill) or buy or obtain (an asset or object) for oneself. Both words describe the act of gaining possession of something. Learning words like acquires helps you emphasize a conscious effort to obtain something.
Meaning of “Gets”
Gets means obtains, acquires, or receives (something); or, reaches or arrives at (a place). In a more casual sense, it can mean understands.
We use it for receiving (She gets a letter), purchasing (He gets new shoes), understanding (She gets the joke), or reaching (He gets to work late).
Synonyms for “Gets”
Here are some common ways to say gets:
- Acquires: Obtains or gains for oneself (often through effort or purchase). A strong alternative for obtaining.
- Receives: Is given, presented with, or subjected to (something). Used when emphasizing the passive act of being given something.
- Obtains: Gets, acquires, or secures (something). A formal and versatile alternative.
- Comprehends: Understands (something, especially something complicated). Used when the meaning is ‘understands’.
- Procures: Obtains (something), especially with care or effort. A professional term used for specialized or difficult acquisitions.
Example Sentences
- The museum acquires new paintings through both purchase and donation.
- She receives a monthly salary deposit on the 1st of every month.
- The company obtains raw materials from a variety of overseas suppliers.
- It often takes a moment for the student to fully comprehends the new concept.
- The chef procures rare spices directly from markets in India.
Mini Dialogue
Sam: “When do you think the boss gets the final report?”
Mia: “He usually receives it by noon. Once he comprehends the data, he’ll let us know.”
Sam: “Perfect, I’ll wait until he acquires it before I call him.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don’t say: She gets for the package. (The verb is transitive and takes the object directly.)
✅ Do say: She gets the package. (Or: She receives the package.)
Let’s Practice!
Which synonym best fits this sentence? “The professor quickly __________ the student’s complex question and provided a concise answer.” (Answer: Comprehends – This synonym works best because it refers specifically to the act of understanding something, often intellectual or complex.)
Practice Tip
Use one new synonym for gets in your next message or conversation today.
Final Note
Knowing what is another word for gets and practicing synonyms like acquires and receives will help you describe obtaining and understanding clearly.
