get after
To keep telling someone to do something, or to start chasing or criticising them.
Meanings
To repeatedly nag or scold someone in order to make them do something.
"Mum kept getting after me about cleaning my room until I finally did it."
To pursue or chase someone or something.
"Quick — get after him before he gets to the exit!"
To begin tackling or dealing with a task or problem.
"You need to get after that leaking pipe before it causes real damage."
Common in American English in the nagging/scolding sense. Often used by parents or authority figures. Also used literally for physical pursuit. The sense of 'start dealing with' or 'get on with' (e.g. 'get after that homework') is very common in American English.
Commonly used with
Forms
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Synonyms
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