get through to — 2 meanings

One phrase, 2 different jobs. Tap a meaning to jump to it — then lock each one in by saying it out loud.

phrasal verb2 meanings

1 make someone understandto succeed in making someone understand what you are trying to say, especially when it is difficult.
2 make contact by phoneto succeed in reaching someone by telephone after trying to call them.

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make someone understand

B2get through to sbMost common

to succeed in making someone understand what you are trying to say, especially when it is difficult.

No matter how many times I explain, I just can't get through to him.

A: I've told my parents how I feel, but they don't seem to get it.
B: Sometimes it's hard to get through to people, especially family.

In group projects, it's important to get through to your teammates so everyone understands their role.

Common mistake

✗It's hard to get through them this idea.

✓It's hard to get through to them. / get this idea through to them.

Use 'get through TO' someone; the idea goes 'through to them'.

Tell it apart

I couldn't get through to the students.

make them understand

I couldn't get through to the office.

reach it by phone

Use this when you want to say that your message or feelings are finally understood by another person.Not about contacting by phone; this is about understanding.

Often paired with

get through to + person

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make contact by phone

B1get through to sb

to succeed in reaching someone by telephone after trying to call them.

I tried calling her all morning, but I couldn't get through to her.

A: Did you manage to talk to the doctor?
B: Yes, I finally got through to her after waiting on hold for ages.

Sometimes it's difficult to get through to customer service because the lines are so busy.

Common mistake

✗I finally got through with the helpline.

✓I finally got through to the helpline.

For reaching someone by phone, it's 'get through TO' — not 'with'.

Tell it apart

I finally got through to them.

reached them by phone

The call got cut off.

the line dropped

Use this when you finally reach someone on the phone after trying to call.Not about understanding; this is about making a phone connection.

Often paired with

get through to + number/person

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make someone understand make contact by phone