gotten
This form is primarily used in North American English as the past participle of "get." In British English, "got" is typically used for both the past tense and the past participle, making "gotten" appear archaic or dialectal in the UK. Using "gotten" often emphasizes the process of acquisition or the transition into a new state, whereas "got" can sometimes imply a static state of possession.
When used to describe a change in condition, such as "gotten tired," it functions as a linking verb. In the context of persuasion, it often appears in the structure "gotten someone to do something," which implies a level of effort or manipulation to achieve a specific result.
Meanings
To have acquired, obtained, or received something through effort or purchase.
He has gotten a new car for his birthday.
To have reached a particular state, condition, or quality over time.
The weather has gotten much colder since yesterday.
To have persuaded or induced someone to do something.
I have finally gotten him to agree to the terms.
To have understood a joke, concept, or piece of information.
I have not quite gotten the point of this story.
To have arrived at a specific destination.
We had finally gotten to the hotel after a long delay.
Phrasal Verbs
gotten away with
escaped punishment for a wrong deed
He has gotten away with lying for years.
gotten over
recovered from an illness or emotional distress
She has finally gotten over her breakup.
gotten across
communicated a message clearly
The speaker has gotten his point across to the audience.
gotten along
maintained a friendly relationship
They have gotten along well since they met.
gotten rid of
eliminated or discarded something
I have finally gotten rid of those old magazines.