get physical

get physical

1. Of a situation, to be or become inclined toward or characterized by sexual physical contact. We dated for a couple of months before things got physical. I was having a great time with her, but I got nervous when it started getting physical.
2. Of a hostile situation, to escalate from a verbal confrontation to outright violence. If the kids start to bicker, you should try to separate them before they get physical. I'm used to them yelling at each other, but I was shocked when the argument got physical.
See also: get, physical
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

get physical

Make physical contact, either forcefully or sexually. For example, Stop pushing-there's no need to get physical, or Thirteen is too young to get physical in that way. [Slang; second half of 1900s]
See also: get, physical
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.

get physical

1 become aggressive or violent. 2 become sexually intimate with someone. 3 take exercise. informal
See also: get, physical
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • physical
  • a cheap shot
  • cheap shot
  • rough someone up
  • rough up
  • knock-down drag-out
  • prime
  • cut (one) down in (one's) prime
  • cut (one) off in (one's) prime
  • cut someone off in their prime
References in periodicals archive
The usual justification for such incidents is that they are frustrated with the inaction of those in power, however, that does not allow anyone to get physical and take matters into their own hands in an illegal manner.
Wrong Precedent
I row a lot with my husband and things can get physical but I have a job here and a son from a previous relationship who is settled at school.
I GAVE UP EVERYTHING FOR HIM
I row a lot with my husband and things can get physical, but I have a job here and a son from a previous relationship who is settled at school.
I GAVE UP EVERYTHING FOR HIM; DEAR COLEEN; Ireland's most straight-talking problem page
But will things get physical? Viewers have to tune in to (http://www.ibtimes.com/bachelorette-2016-spoilers-what-will-happen-episode-5-synopsis-teases-more-drama-2381233) episode 5 on Monday to (http://www.ibtimes.com/bachelorette-fans-have-wait-two-weeks-see-why-chad-returns-2379658) watch Chad confront the other suitors  after getting eliminated.
'The Bachelorette' Star Chad Johnson Finally Comments On Being The 2016 Villain
"And I still know all the moves to Let's Get Physical too," she adds naughtily.
I feel so good at 62..and I can still get into 'those' trousers; OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN EXCLUSIVE
"Let's Get Physical is a great opportunity for us to remind children and young people that being active can and should be fun, interesting and accessible."
Kids facing a 'time bomb' of ill health