get down to
B1 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
To start working hard on something important.
Meanings
1 B1
idiomatic
neutral
To begin dealing with something seriously and with full attention.
"Right, let's get down to work — we've wasted enough time."
"Let's get down to brass tacks."
— Traditional American idiom; famously used in many U.S. business and political contexts throughout the 20th century
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2
idiomatic
neutral
To reach the most essential or fundamental level of something.
"When you get down to it, the problem is really about poor communication."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Very common in the expression 'get down to business' and 'get down to the nitty-gritty' (meaning the important details). Implies focused, serious effort.
Commonly used with
business work details basics brass tacks studying
Forms
Base
get down to
I/you/we/they
3rd person
gets down to
he/she/it
Past simple
got down to
yesterday
Past participle
got/gotten down to
have + pp
-ing form
getting down to
continuous
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Synonyms
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