gerund or present participle
Receiving something or obtaining it for yourself.
Getting a reply can take a few days.
I'm getting a refund tomorrow.
American English
How to pronounce getting
verbA1Very common word
GEHddihng
/ˈgɛ.ɾɪŋ/
2 syllables · Stress the first syllable.
Form of get
Getting can be used in a continuing verb phrase or at the beginning of a phrase that names an action.
Receiving something or obtaining it for yourself.
What to listen for
In American English, the middle “t” in “getting” often sounds like a very quick “d”: /ˈgɛɾɪŋ/.
Meanings & examples
gerund or present participle
Buying something.
Getting groceries after work is easy.
We're getting a gift for Maya.
gerund or present participle
Going to bring something or someone back.
I'm getting a towel for you.
Getting the kids from school takes an hour.
gerund or present participle
Starting to be in a new state or condition.
I'm getting tired.
Getting better takes time.
Useful expressions
to leave your bed or rise to your feet
I get up at six on weekdays.
to return
What time did you get back?
to have a friendly relationship with someone
I get along well with my new coworkers.
Related words & forms
In American English, gotten is common for a change or result: She's gotten better. Use got for possession: I've got a car.