To start working seriously on something, or to reach the most important or essential part.
To start working hard on something important.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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
To reach the most essential or fundamental level of something.
"When you get down to it, the problem is really about poor communication."
Very common in the expression 'get down to business' and 'get down to the nitty-gritty' (meaning the important details). Implies focused, serious effort.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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