give as good as one gets verb1 •To behave toward others in a manner resembling or commensurate with their behavior towards oneself, especially in a situation where one is insulted or otherwise ill-treated.On balance, it was harsh on Hearts, who had given as good as they got against their more-fancied opponents, who, despite not being at full strength, fielded a multi-million pound team. — 2012 formsgave as good as one got · given as good as one got · giving as good as one gets · gives as good as one gets