Translation guide
The English phrasal verb "get on" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: boarding a vehicle, mounting an animal or object, progressing or managing, and getting along with people. Each meaning requires different Japanese expressions.
To enter or climb onto a bus, train, plane, etc.
The most common verb for boarding any vehicle. Use the particle に to mark the vehicle.
バスに乗る。
I get on the bus.
Please get on the train.
Emphasizes the action of stepping into a vehicle, often used when boarding is a bit more deliberate or when entering a car/taxi.
I got into the taxi.
Formal term used for boarding airplanes or ships, often in announcements or written contexts.
To board an airplane.
To climb onto a horse, bicycle, motorcycle, or similar.
To continue doing something, make progress, or manage in life/work.
A general phrase meaning to do well or manage successfully. Often used when asking how someone is getting on.
How are you getting on with your work?
Means to advance or make progress. Used for tasks or projects.
The project is getting on well.
Means to make good progress, especially on a task. Often used when work is going smoothly.
To have a good relationship with someone.
Describes a good relationship. Use with と to indicate the person.
I get on well with him.
Means to get along or manage a relationship smoothly. Often implies effort to maintain harmony.
I'm worried about whether I'll get on with my new colleague.
Means to get along well because of similar personalities or interests. Literally 'spirits match'.
To continue doing something, often after an interruption.
The English phrasal verb 'get on' cannot be translated word-for-word into Japanese. Always identify the specific meaning first, then choose the appropriate Japanese expression.
乗る is the general verb for boarding or riding. 乗り込む emphasizes the action of entering the vehicle, often used when you step into a car or taxi. For trains and buses, 乗る is more common.
Get on the bus quickly!
How are you getting on with your Japanese studies?
バイクにまたがる。
I get on the motorcycle (straddle it).
仕事がはかどった。
I got on well with my work (made good progress).
I get on with her (we click).