Have/Get something done - B2 Advanced Grammar English A1-C2 Study Notes

The expression 'have/get something done' is a key structure in advanced English that signifies having something performed by someone else. This is particularly useful for students who need to articulate actions that involve indirect responsibility or solicitation. For instance, a person might say, 'I had my car repaired' to indicate they arranged for someone else to do the repair. This structure is integral in both formal and informal contexts, enabling speakers to convey agency without taking direct action. Additionally, it explores the complexities within passive voice constructions, linking ideas of agency, responsibility, and action in a way that is both efficient and idiomatic. As learners progress through levels A1 to C2, mastering this construction will help them in real-life situations and in formal writing tasks such as exams and professional communication.

The structure can primarily be categorized into 'have something done' and 'get something done'. 'Have something done' often implies a higher level of formality or authority. For example, 'She will have the reports reviewed by an expert'. On the other hand, 'get something done' suggests a more informal approach: 'I will get my hair cut'. It’s essential to know the nuances between these phrases, as 'have' generally conveys a more proactive role in the arrangement process, whereas 'get' portrays a more casual involvement. This structure is also indicative of the passive voice, where the focus is on the action taken rather than the subject performing the action. Examples include: 'I had my wisdom teeth removed' (implying a dentist performed the action), and 'He gets his suits tailored regularly'. In summary, mastering these subtleties will enhance both verbal and written communication.