Get around to doing something (gerund)

[mike]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #193 "Phrasal Verbs (G to H)", question 3

Lucy was so busy that she didn't ......... fixing the stereo.

(a) get around
(b) get around to
(c) get with

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #193 "Phrasal Verbs (G to H)", answer 3

Lucy was so busy that she didn't get around to fixing the stereo.

Correct answer: (b) get around to

Your answer was: incorrect
Lucy was so busy that she didn't get around fixing the stereo.
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Lucy was so busy that she did not get around to FIX (not fixing) the stereo.

Mike

[Yankee]

Hi there

Actually, fixing is correct in this sentence.

Most of the time you need the infinitive after "to".
BUT there are some phrasal verbs that include "to" as a preposition.
And after a prepostion you need the -ing form (gerund). Some examples with "to" as a prepostion:

get around to He finally got around to calling.
look forward to We're looking forward to seeing you.
admit to He admitted to being scared.
be used to They are used to driving on the left side of the road.
be accustomed to She's accustomed to getting up at 5 a.m.

Amy
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Amy
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ESL teacher, translator, and a native speaker of American English