get after

phrase

: to pursue with exhortation, reprimand, or attack

The coach really got after the players at halftime.

Examples of get after in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There’s been a boom-or-bust nature to TCU’s success getting after the quarterback with it often feeling like either the quarterback will be brought down for a sack or having plenty of time to throw. — Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Sep. 2026

Challenging down and distances, like a third-and-7, is when opposing defenses can bring extra rushers to get after the quarterback. — Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 17 Sep. 2026

If Burrow can stay healthy and give the Bengals some early leads, Dexter Lawrence and the rest of that defensive front will have their opportunities to get after opposing QBs. — Dan Pompei, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2026

As an outside linebacker, Diaby gets paid to get after people. — Rick Stroud, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1869, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for get after

• hereafter
• thereafter
• drafter
• laughter
• rafter
• hereinafter
• thereinafter