getting by

VERB

manage, survive

Synonyms

STRONGEST

cope get along get on prosper subsist thrive

WEAK

contrive do do well enough exist fare flourish make ends meet make out muddle through shift succeed

Antonyms

STRONGEST

fail lose

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Those who manage to buy cooking gas are getting by somewhat, but most have to use gas or charcoal. There’s no internet connection either.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

According to a 2024 MarketWatch analysis, “the typical American family with this income is just getting by, with little cushion for unexpected expenses, savings or planning for the future without making significant compromises.”

From MarketWatch • Jan. 29, 2026

"We've gotten used to getting by on our own. We're a tight team," Bohdan smiled.

From Barron's • Dec. 17, 2025

Both men always appear cheerful and pragmatic, and both are notorious for getting by on precious little sleep.

From BBC • Oct. 29, 2025

The scariest part, though, is definitely getting by the final bag.

From "Amari and the Night Brothers" by B.B. Alston