Get on means to board a bus, train, plane or bike, or to have a friendly relationship with someone. For transport, say get on the bus, get on a plane. For relationships, get on is followed by with and a person, often together with well: I get on well with my neighbours.
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get on + bus/train/plane/bike; get on (well) with + person; people + get on (well)
- We got on the night train in Vienna and woke up in Venice.
- I get on well with my manager, so I can ask her for advice.
- My two sons didn't get on as kids, but now they share a flat.
What changed
First versionAt the station, I sat in the bus to the airport.
RevisionAt the station, I got on the bus to the airport.
Sit may seem natural, since you sit down once you are on board, but sit in the bus means to be sitting inside the bus, not to go on board. Boarding a bus, train or plane is get on: got on the bus.
For cars and taxis, use get in or get into: get in the car. And the question How are you getting on? means “How are things going?” People ask it about a new job, studies or a move.
Your turn
I rarely call my cousin because we don't really ___ each other.
Show the answer
get on with — This is about a relationship with a person, so get on needs with: get on with each other. Without with, it sounds as if you were climbing onto the person like a bus.
Describe a colleague, neighbour or classmate you get on well with. Say how long you have known each other and what helps you get on.
I've known my colleague Sasha for three years, and we get on well because we both like clear plans.
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