"Let's get it over (with)" — do I need the "with"?
Solution 1:
It's an idiomatic phrase. Idioms sometimes develop through the strangest manners. It means to do or finish, especially said of something unpleasant.
You know you need stitches. Let's just get it over with.
The Atlantic did a whole article on getting things over with.
The first usage dates from the 1800s.
Complete, have done with, especially something unpleasant. For example, When I finally got the proofreading over, I was ready for a day off , or I'm glad to get all that dental work over with . It also is put as , as in I might as well sign the check and get it over with .
The first usage dates from the late 1800s, the second from the early 1800s.
While most people do say over with, it's not necessary. It's very common (in PA, at least) to say get it over, get it done
Edited to add: A beautiful poem by Philip Larkin (9 August 1922 – 2 December 1985)
Love, we must part now: do not let it be
Calamitious and bitter. In the past
There has been too much moonlight and self-pity
Let us have done with it: for now at last
Never has sun more boldly paced the sky
Never were hearts more eager to be free
To kick down worlds, lash forests; you and I
No longer hold them; we are husks, that see
The grain going forward to a different useThere is regret. Always, there is regret
But it is better that our lives unloose
As two tall ships, wind-mastered, wet with light
Break from an estuary with their courses set
And waving part, and waving drop from sight
Solution 2:
Just a hunch here, but it could be because over is such a flexible word, so, without the "with," the phrase feels too "open ended." Imagine "Let's get it over," by itself. That could mean:
- We're pushing the car... Let's get it over the crest of this hill.
- We're pushing this piano... Let's get it over there, into the corner.
- We're baking a plate of cookies... Let's get it over to the neighbor's, while they're still warm.
- We're maneuvering a remote control helicopter... Let's get it over the landing pad.
- We're taking a test... Let's get it over with, so we can go home.