Get Out of Here!: Definition, Meaning, and Origin (2024)

"Get out of here!" is an idiom with different meanings depending on the context and tone. It can express disbelief, surprise, annoyance, or urgency.

In short:

• The phrase "get out of here" convey dismissive disbelief or astonishment.
• It also serves as a command to leave a specific place quickly.

What Does "Get Out of Here!" Mean?

The meaning of "get out of here!" depends on how it is said and in what situation.

Here are some possible meanings and related expressions for this idiom:

• To express disbelief or skepticism when someone says something unbelievable or untrue. For example, "You won the lottery? Get out of here!" This meaning is similar to other expressions, such as "You're kidding me!" or "No way!"
• To express surprise or admiration when someone tells you something impressive or remarkable. For example, "You met your favorite celebrity? Get out of here!" This meaning resembles phrases such as "Wow!" or "That's incredible!"
• To tell someone to leave you alone or stop bothering you when you are annoyed or angry with them. For example, "Get out of here! I don't want to talk to you anymore!" This meaning is similar to other terms such as "Go away!" or "Leave me alone!"
• To urge someone to leave a place quickly when there is danger or trouble. For example, "Get out of here! The police are coming!" This meaning is similar to other idioms, such as "Run for it!" or "We need to go!"

Where Does "Get Out of Here!" Come From?

The origin of the idiom "get out of here!" is unclear. However, some theories say it may have come from a foreign expression adopted into English. For example, in Spanish, there is an expression ¡vamos! which means "let's go!" but can also be used to express disbelief or surprise. English speakers may have translated this expression as "get out of here!".

10 Examples of "Get Out of Here!" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use this idiom in different sentences:

• Get out of here! There's a fire in the kitchen!
• Get out of here! We have to catch the last train!
• Get out of here! You're not welcome in this house anymore!
• She told me she loved me. Get out of here! I can't believe it!
• Get out of here! I feel annoyed because of your constant questions!
• Did you meet the president? Get out of here! How did that happen?
• He said he saw a ghost in the attic. Get out of here! He's lying, for sure.
• Did you get a promotion and a raise? Get out of here! That's awesome!
• Did you make this cake by yourself? Get out of here! It looks delicious!
• He claims he can speak seven languages. Get out of here! That's impossible!

Examples of "Get Out of Here!" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how this idiom has been used in various forms of pop culture:

• In the movie Home Alone (1990), Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) says, "Get outta here!" several times to scare away the burglars who try to break into his house.
• "Get Out Of Here" is a song by the Irish rock band Thin Lizzy from their 1979 album Black Rose: A Rock Legend. The lyrics are about breaking up with a lover who has become too demanding and controlling. The song expresses the frustration and anger of the narrator, who wants to get out of the relationship and never see the other person again.
• In the TV show Seinfeld (1989-1998), George Costanza (Jason Alexander) often says, "Get outta here!" when he hears something surprising or unbelievable from his friends.
• Get Outta Here is a 2015 Hong Kong comedy horror film directed by Nick Leung, who made his feature film debut with this movie. The film is a social satire that tackles the issues of urban development, gentrification, and cultural identity in Hong Kong, as Joe and his new friends face the threats of other vampires and greedy land developers.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Get Out of Here!"

Here are some synonyms for all the meanings of this idiom:

• No way!
• You're kidding me!
• Wow!
• That's amazing!
• That's incredible!
• Go away!
• Leave me alone!
• Run for it!
• Move it!
• Come on!

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Get Out of Here!"

Here are some frequently asked questions about this idiom:

• What does "get out of here!" mean?

"Get out of here!" is an idiom with different meanings depending on the context and tone. It can express disbelief, surprise, annoyance, or urgency.

• What is the origin of the phrase "get out of here!"?

The origin of the idiom "get out of here!" is unclear. However, some theories say it may have come from a foreign expression adopted into English.

• Is "get out of here!" rude?

It depends on how you say it and in what situation. If you say it with a friendly or playful tone, it can be a way of showing surprise or admiration. If you say it with an angry or annoyed tone, it can be a way of telling someone to leave you alone or stop bothering you. If you say it with an urgent tone, it can be a way of warning someone to leave a place quickly.

• Is "get out of here!" a slang expression?
  

Yes, "get out of here!" is considered a slang expression, which means it is informal and not appropriate for formal or academic settings.

• Can "get out of here!" be used in a joking or playful context?

Yes, it's often used playfully, especially among friends, to express disbelief in a light-hearted or humorous way.

• When is it appropriate to use the idiom "get out of here!"?

It's appropriate in informal or casual settings, such as among friends, but not in formal or professional contexts.

• Are there any alternative expressions that convey a similar sentiment?

Yes, alternatives include "You must be kidding!" or "No way!" which convey disbelief or surprise.

• Is "get out of here!" considered offensive or disrespectful?

It can be if used aggressively or inappropriately. Otherwise, it's typically considered a casual expression of disbelief.

• How can I respond appropriately when someone says, "get out of here!" to me?

Your response can vary based on the context. If it's a friendly exchange, you might respond with a light-hearted comment. If it's confrontational, you can choose to address the situation calmly or disengage.

• What are some cultural or regional variations of this idiom?

Variations of this idiom can be found in different cultures and regions. For example, in the UK, people might say, "You're having a laugh!" or "You must be joking!"

Final Thoughts About "Get Out of Here!"

"Get out of here!" is a versatile and expressive idiom with different meanings and tones depending on the context and situation. It can show disbelief, surprise, annoyance, or urgency.

Here are some key points to remember about the phrase:

• It may have originated from a foreign expression.
• It can be used in various sentences and contexts, both literally and figuratively.
• It has been used in multiple forms of pop culture, such as movies, TV shows, songs, etc.
• It has many synonyms and translations in other languages.

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