get by with — to manage to survive or cope using a limited or minimal amount of something
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to manage to survive or cope using a limited or minimal amount of something
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈɡɛt baɪ wɪð/
Example Sentences
- My roommate can get by with just three hours of sleep, but I turn into a zombie.
- Even without knowing Korean well, tourists can get by with simple gestures and a smartphone translator.
- He tried to get by with just instant noodles for a week, and now he never wants to see one again.
get by with
VERB[/ˈɡɛt baɪ wɪð/]
to manage to survive or cope using a limited or minimal amount of something
With just a rusty bike and packed lunches, she manages to get by with very little money.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The phrase 'get by' originates from Germanic roots, initially denoting the literal physical action of passing through or traversing a narrow space. Over time, the image of squeezing past obstacles evolved metaphorically to mean managing or coping with difficult situations. The addition of 'with' specifies the means or resources used to endure such circumstances.
Breakdown
get (to move or arrive) + by (past or alongside) + with (by means of or using). The compound phrase combines the verb 'get' with the adverbial particle 'by' to create a phrasal verb meaning to manage or proceed, strengthened by 'with' to indicate the resource or tool employed in doing so.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My roommate can get by with just three hours of sleep, but I turn into a zombie.”
“Even without knowing Korean well, tourists can get by with simple gestures and a smartphone translator.”
“He tried to get by with just instant noodles for a week, and now he never wants to see one again.”
“During the exam period, many students get by with just caffeine and willpower.”
📚Related Words
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