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Meaning trap

get through

use all of something

To use or finish the whole amount of something, especially faster than expected.

phrasal verbB2occasional

Don't mix these meanings

Same phrase, different job.

use all of something

To use or finish the whole amount of something, especially faster than expected.

get through (finish a difficult task)

Another meaning of 'get through' is 'finish a difficult task'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.

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Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • We got through all the snacks before the movie even started.money
  • Students often get through a lot of coffee during exam week.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: get through (something)

WrongWe get through with a lot of paper.

RightWe get through a lot of paper.

'Get through' takes the amount directly — no 'with'.

Patternget through (something)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff The children consume an extraordinary quantity of milk.

Natural The kids get through so much milk.

'Get through' (British English) compactly means use up a large amount; 'consume an extraordinary quantity' is formal.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • get through + quantity
    a lot ofso muchtwo bottlesthe whole packet

Don't confuse it

'Get through' here means to use up, not just experience.

Try it in Daily Speak →