The get-passive describes a dynamic change of state, often sudden or unexpected, adding a more informal or dramatic tone than the be-passive, as in he got fired last week versus he was fired last week. It rarely includes an explicit by-agent and is too informal for academic or legal writing.
Grammar Rule
The get-passive describes a dynamic change of state, often sudden, unexpected, or unfortunate, adding a more informal or dramatic tone than the be-passive. It is especially common with reflexive, transitional actions like get married, get promoted, get injured. It rarely includes an explicit by-agent and is too informal for academic or legal writing.
Passive with Get: Informal and Dynamic Passive: Rules and Examples
| Form | Register | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Get + past participle | informal, dynamic, sudden/unexpected change | He got fired last week. |
| Be + past participle | formal, neutral, agent-focused | He was fired last week. |
Remember: Use get + past participle for informal, dynamic changes, and switch to be + past participle for formal, neutral, or agent-focused statements.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below using the get-passive correctly. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
C2-49 Passive with Get – Informal/Dynamic Passive
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the get-passive describe?
A dynamic change of state, often sudden or unexpected, as in he got fired last week.
How does the get-passive compare in tone to the be-passive?
It is more informal and dramatic than the be-passive, as in he was fired last week.
Does the get-passive usually include a by-agent?
Rarely.
Is the get-passive appropriate for academic or legal writing?
No, it is too informal for those registers.