get by with
B1 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
To be able to manage using something you have, even if it isn't the best.
Meanings
1 B1 neutral
To manage adequately using what you have, even if it is not ideal.
"We only have two laptops, but we can get by with them for now."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 neutral
To have just enough of a skill or resource to function in a situation.
"You can get by with a basic knowledge of grammar, but fluency requires much more."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Often used when explaining you have something limited but sufficient: 'We can get by with what we have.' Similar to 'make do with' but slightly more optimistic in tone.
Commonly used with
what little it one less minimum
Forms
Base
get by with
I/you/we/they
3rd person
gets by with
he/she/it
Past simple
got by with
yesterday
Past participle
got/gotten by with
have + pp
-ing form
getting by with
continuous
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Synonyms
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