get mugged
/ɡɛt mʌɡd/
Meaning
This expression means to be attacked and robbed in a public place, typically on the street. It is a passive-like structure ('get' + past participle) used frequently in spoken, casual, or informal English instead of the formal 'to be robbed.'
Examples
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He got mugged in the park late last night, but luckily he wasn't hurt.
He got mugged in the park late last night, but luckily he wasn't hurt.
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Keep your phone in your pocket so you don't get mugged.
Keep your phone in your pocket so you don't get mugged.
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I heard that tourists sometimes get mugged in that part of the city.
I heard that tourists sometimes get mugged in that part of the city.
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She was terrified of getting mugged while walking home alone.
She was terrified of getting mugged while walking home alone.
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My brother got mugged, and they took his wallet and keys.
My brother got mugged, and they took his wallet and keys.
Common Mistakes
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✗ He got mugged his watch.
✓ He got mugged and they took his watch.
'Get mugged' cannot be followed directly by the object stolen. You must describe what was taken in a separate clause or use 'robbed of'.
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✗ Our house got mugged yesterday.
✓ Our house got broken into.
'Mugged' only applies to people being robbed in public spaces, not buildings or houses.
Related Expressions
Practice
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Be careful in dark alleyways; you don't want to ___.
💡 To be attacked and robbed on the street.
Show answer
get mugged
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If you carry too much cash in public, you might ___.
💡 Become a victim of a street robbery.
Show answer
get mugged