get hold of
Definition
Verb: 1. To obtain or acquire something: To succeed in finding and taking possession of something. 2. To contact or communicate with someone: To manage to speak to or meet with a person.
Usage Examples
- To obtain something:
- I need to get hold of a copy of that book before the exam.
- It's difficult to get hold of fresh mangoes in winter.
- To contact someone:
- I've been trying to get hold of the manager all morning.
- If you need me, you can get hold of me on my mobile.
Advanced Usage
- The phrase often implies some degree of effort or difficulty in the process of obtaining or contacting.
- After searching three stores, I finally got hold of the right adapter.
- It can be used in informal commands or requests.
- Get hold of yourself! (Meaning: Calm down, regain your composure.)
Variants and Related Words
- Get ahold of: An informal variant, primarily used in North American English, with the same meanings.
- Try to get ahold of John and tell him the news.
Synonyms
- Obtain, acquire, procure (for the "obtain" meaning).
- Contact, reach, get in touch with (for the "contact" meaning).
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Get through to: To succeed in making contact, especially by phone.
- I couldn't get through to the helpline.
- Get one's hands on: To obtain something, often with a connotation of eagerness.
- He's desperate to get his hands on the new game console.
Related Idioms
- Get a grip (on yourself): Similar to "get hold of yourself," meaning to control your emotions.
- Stop panicking and get a grip!
Verb
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affect
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Fear seized the prisoners
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The patient was seized with unbearable pains
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He was seized with a dreadful disease
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be in or establish communication with
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Our advertisements reach millions
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He never contacted his children after he emigrated to Australia
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get into one's hands, take physically
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Take a cookie!
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Can you take this bag, please
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