The Grammar of ‘Get’: Why ‘Get Impresssed’ Sounds Off

Have you ever found yourself using phrases like 'I get impressed' and thought they sounded awkward? If so, you're not alone. In this article, we'll explore the nuances of the verb 'get' in English, why saying 'I get impressed' is incorrect, and delve into why we use 'get confused' instead.

Why Do We Use 'Get' to Express Temporary States?

The verb 'get' is a versatile word in English, often used to express temporary states or situations. Why do we use it for some states but not others? For instance, we can say 'I get confused' but not 'I get impressed'. This curiosity has sparked debate among linguists and English enthusiasts alike.

The Phrase 'I Get Confused'

When we say 'I get confused', we are referring to a temporary state of being uncertain or disoriented. The confusion arises from the external circumstances or something that happens to us. It's a simple, natural way to express a common human experience.

Understanding Why 'I Get Confused' is Correct

Consider the sentence: 'I got confused by the complicated map and my poor sense of direction.' Here, the confusion is a result of the external factors (the map and lack of direction). The verb 'get' serves to convey that this confusion is something I encounter temporarily, due to the situation around me.

Why 'I Get Impressed' Isn’t Grammatically Correct

Now, let's take a look at 'impressed'. This word is often used to convey a lasting effect or impact from something or someone. It carries a sense of admiration or being greatly influenced by an event, person, or object. However, it's unusual to use 'get' in this context. Instead, we say 'I was impressed by his behavior' or 'The book impressed me'. Here, 'was' or 'is' is more appropriate.

Exploring the Why Behind 'I Get Confused' Versus 'I Get Impressed'

The key difference lies in the nature of the states being expressed. 'Confusion' is a state that can be induced by external factors and is temporary. For example, 'The complex instructions made me get confused'. Conversely, 'Impressed' is more of a lasting effect, often stemming from a specific action or attribute, as in 'His beautiful singing impressed me'. In this case, it’s the action or attribute that makes the person feel impressed.

Changing Linguistic Comfort Levels

Language is dynamic and evolves over time. If you or others find the phrase 'I get impressed' more comfortable, why not try it out? Start using it in your everyday speech, and perhaps it could catch on. Creative expression, such as writing a novel, poem, or song that incorporates 'I get impressed', could help spread the phrase and change perceptions.

Promoting New Phrases

Language change often starts with individuals. If you feel confident in using 'I get impressed', go ahead and use it. Over time, if enough people adopt and use the phrase, it may become more accepted in common usage. This process of linguistic change through personal and social influence is fascinating to observe.

Conclusion

While the phrase 'I get confused' is grammatically correct and widely accepted, 'I get impressed' is not. This is due to the nature of the states being expressed. Confusion is a temporary state often caused by external factors, while impressions are usually more lasting and often induced by specific actions or qualities.

Key Points

The verb 'get' is used for temporary states like being confused. Impressed is a more lasting, qualitative state that doesn't typically use 'get'. Language change can occur through individual and group usage.

References

For a deeper dive into the nuances of English grammar, consider exploring the BBC Bitesize grammar guide or the English Club resource for more detailed information.