Someone is trying to use a device and realizes that it is not working. So he says:
I will try and get it working. ITV-dental crisis (see:4:00-4:12)
The structure "get it working" reminded of a similar structure with similar meaning (causative): "get it to work."
Grammatically, they both seem to have a causative meaning, however I am not sure whether it would be correct if the speaker said:
"I will try and get it to work." instead of "……get it working."?
Best Answer
A device (or motor or machine) is broken, so we say to the person with the broken device:
OR
So, either can be used. There is not any essential difference.
For example:
I have a new dishwasher and I push the on button and it does not start running, and I say to the repair person: Can you get it to work? He answers: Sure thing, I'll get it working in no time.
If a new machine, device, motor etc. has not worked when you turn it on the first time, you cannot get it to work. Here, we wouldn't usually say: get it working in our description of the problem.
However, the second one has an additional meaning.
to get something to work is not just about devices, motors, etc.
A relationship can be said to not work. For example, you've been disagreeing with someone about your relationship for a while, so you might say: