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to get at
[phrase form: get]
01
to cause irritation or annoyance to someone
Transitive: to get at sb
Examples
The constant noise from the construction site next door really gets at me.
02
to reach an understanding of something through questioning, investigation, or analysis
Transitive: to get at sth
Examples
I ca n't quite get at what the author is trying to say in this book.
03
to be able to have access to or reach something
Transitive: to get at sth
Examples
The key to the safe was lost, so they could n't get at the valuable documents inside.
04
to try to bribe or corrupt someone in power
Transitive: to get at someone in power
Examples
The company executives tried to get at the politicians by offering bribes for favorable legislation.
05
to contact or reach someone, especially when this is difficult or requires some effort
Transitive: to get at sb
Examples
I 've been trying to get at my old friend from college, but his phone number has changed.
06
to criticize or attack someone, usually in a subtle or indirect manner
Transitive: to get at someone's shortcoming or mistake
Examples
He started to get at his opponent's weaknesses during the debate.
