- To understand the intended meaning or point someone is trying to convey, especially when it's implied, hinted, indirect, or the result of repeated actions or warnings.
Explanation
Origin
- Fairly literal: To receive (get) the message (the communication, including its underlying point).
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Take a hint (very close synonym)
- Catch on
- Figure it out
- Get it
- Pick up what someone's putting down (understands subtle meaning, slang)
- Cop on (Irish/UK slang: understand, become aware)
Milder/Standard:
- Understand the communication
- Grasp the intended point
- Comprehend the situation
- Recognize the expectation
Situational Appropriateness
- Informal to semi-formal. Can sound somewhat blunt or impatient, especially in the question form (Don't you get the message?).
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Learners might initially think only of literal written/spoken messages. Emphasize it often refers to understanding unspoken points, hints, or the meaning behind actions/consequences.
Examples
- I ignored his calls for a week. He finally got the message.
- The company issued a third warning about lateness. I think people are finally getting the message.
- (Impatiently): I told you I'm busy! Don't you get the message?
- (Humorously, when something is obvious): Okay, okay, you've mentioned pizza five times. I get the message!
Dialogue
Parent 1: I keep telling Jamie to clean his room. I've reminded him, taken away privileges...
Parent 2: Has he gotten the message yet?
Parent 1: I think so. He finally started cleaning it this morning after I threatened to take his game console for a month.
Social Media Examples
- Tweet: Blocked. Sometimes that's the only way they'll get the message. #boundaries #peace
- Post: My cat keeps knocking things off the table until I feed him. He knows how to make sure I get the message! 😹 #catlife #smartpets
- Comment (on an obvious post): Loud and clear! We get the message! 😂 You really want tacos tonight!
Response Patterns
- Acknowledging understanding: Alright, fine, I get the message.
- Checking understanding of others: Do you think they'll get the message this time? Response: I hope so, or Doubtful.
- Expressing frustration: Why won't they just get the message?
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
- After someone 'gets the message', their behavior usually changes to align with the understood communication (e.g., they stop bothering someone, they follow the rule).
- If someone *isn't* getting the message, the sender might escalate to more direct or forceful communication.
Conversation Starter
- No. Refers to the reception or understanding of communication.
Intonation
- Stress on get (or got) and message.
- He finally GOT the MESSAGE.
- Can convey resignation, finality, or exasperation.
Generation Differences
- Widely understood and used across generations.
Regional Variations
- Common across all major English-speaking regions.