The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word COPES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
C
O
P
E
S
More clues leading to the result COPES
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "gets through" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case gets through = copes.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does COPES mean?
COPES verb- To deal effectively with something, especially if difficult.
- To cut and form a mitred joint in wood or metal.
- To clip the beak or talons of a bird.
- A long, loose cloak worn by a priest, deacon, or bishop when presiding over a ceremony other than the Mass.
- Any covering such as a canopy or a mantle.
- The vault or canopy of the skies, heavens etc.
- A covering piece on top of a wall exposed to the weather, usually made of metal, masonry, or stone, and sloped to carry off water.
- (foundry) The top part of a sand casting mold.
- An ancient tribute due to the lord of the soil, out of the lead mines in Derbyshire, England.
- To cover (a joint or structure) with coping.
- To form a cope or arch; to bend or arch; to bow.
- To bargain for; to buy.
- To exchange or barter.
- To make return for; to requite; to repay.
- To match oneself against; to meet; to encounter.
- To encounter; to meet; to have to do with.