get the idea | get the picture

INFORMAL
This page is about the conversational phrase get the idea | get the picture

Meaning

to understand something, esp. something that isn't said directly

For example

  • Brad and Angie kissed and then looked at me. "OK," I said, "I get picture. You want to be alone."

  • He dragged his finger across his throat and said, "Get the idea?" I nodded and said, "I won't say a word. I promise."

Note:
Also "get it", as in "OK, I get it. You want to be alone."

Quick Quiz

You can say "I get the idea" or "I get the picture" to let someone know

a. you get their meaning

b. you can picture them

c. you've had an idea
a) you get their meaning b) you can picture them c) you've had an idea

Contributor: Matt Errey