The Open Dictionary

get at someone

Related to word: get

Phrasal Verb

Definition (criticism)

  1. to incessantly criticize or continually find fault with someone

    • She is always nitpicking his work, and it's really unbearable. People have started to notice how she keeps getting at him.

    • If you keep getting at him like this, he will eventually feel demoralized and want to quit.

    • During the meeting, the manager kept getting at her report, making her feel very embarrassed.

Definition (influence)

  1. to exert influence over someone by improper means, often involving bribery or threats

    • They tried to get at the decision-makers by bribing them, which is clearly an unethical approach.

    • She hinted that someone was trying to get at the situation by using threats, which was quite unsettling.

    • They tried to get at him with money, attempting to make him accept unfair terms.