1 C1 idiomatic slang
(Slang) To get physically close to someone in a confrontational or intimidating way.
"He got up in the referee's face after the controversial decision."
inseparable
get up in
C1 slang inseparable transitive
(Slang) To intrude into someone's personal space or private business in an aggressive or unwelcome way.
In plain English
To push yourself into someone's space or business where you are not wanted.
What does "get up in" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 idiomatic slang
(Slang) To intrude into someone's personal affairs or private business.
"Why do you always have to get up in my business? It doesn't concern you."
inseparable
Usage tip
Primarily associated with AAVE and American slang. Often used in phrases like 'get up in someone's face' or 'get up in my business'. Implies a violation of personal boundaries. Widespread in hip-hop lyrics and informal speech among younger speakers.
Words that pair with "get up in"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
face business space feelings head grill
How to conjugate "get up in"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
get up in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
gets up in
he/she/it
Past simple
got up in
yesterday
Past participle
got/gotten up in
have + pp
-ing form
getting up in
continuous
Hear "get up in" in the wild
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Other ways to say "get up in"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
be all up in butt into get in someone's face intrude into invade meddle in
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