get after
verb1
To move into action in pursuit of something.
- He's wasting time at university not getting after his degree.
- If you want to win, you've got to get after it.
2
To move into action in attempt to catch or defeat another.
- These murders are an indication of a swing to the right in this country, and also of the economic situation. Americans get after minorities during economic hard times: Blacks, Jews, Catholics. It's our turn because we've been the most vocal lately.1980 August 16, Fran Koski, “Fourth Gay Man Murdered Here”, in Gay Community News, volume 8, number 5, page 6:
- The defensive line needs to get after the quarterback.
1 more example
- Do you think the girl's going to ask you out? Get after her!
3
To attempt to convince another to move into action.
- Parents get after their children to do homework for the best.
- Related terms
- go after