get after

English

Verb

get after (third-person singular simple present gets after, present participle getting after, simple past got after, past participle (UK) got after or (US) gotten after)

1. To move into action in pursuit of something.

   He's wasting time at university not getting after his degree.

   If you want to win, you've got to get after it.

2. To move into action in attempt to catch or defeat another.
   • 1980 August 16, Fran Koski, “Fourth Gay Man Murdered Here”, in Gay Community News, volume 8, number 5, page 6:

     These murders are an indication of a swing to the right in this country, and also of the economic situation. Americans get after minorities during economic hard times: Blacks, Jews, Catholics. It's our turn because we've been the most vocal lately.

   The defensive line needs to get after the quarterback.

   Do you think the girl's going to ask you out? Get after her!

3. To attempt to convince another to move into action.

   Parents get after their children to do homework for the best.

See also

• go after