Phrasal Verbs

Introduction

In this chapter, we will learn about phrasal verbs. Phrasal verbs are important because they combine verbs with prepositions or adverbs to create new meanings. Understanding phrasal verbs helps us use more expressive and natural English.

What Are Phrasal Verbs?

Phrasal verbs are verbs that are made up of a main verb combined with a preposition or an adverb (or both) that changes the meaning of the original verb.

Example:

• Look (to see) + after = look after (to take care of)

Key Points

• Combination of Words: Phrasal verbs consist of a main verb and one or more particles (prepositions or adverbs).
• New Meanings: The combination creates a new meaning different from the original verb.
• Common in English: Phrasal verbs are frequently used in everyday English.

Examples

• Break + down = Break down (to stop functioning)
• Give + up = Give up (to stop trying)
• Turn + off = Turn off (to stop a machine)

List of Common Phrasal Verbs

Here are some common phrasal verbs:

Examples of Phrasal Verbs in a Sentence

Each of these sentences uses phrasal verbs. You’ll see that each phrasal verb combines a main verb with a preposition or an adverb to create a new meaning.

Examples:

• She looks after her younger brother.
• The car broke down on the highway.
• He gave up smoking last year.
• Please turn off the lights.
• He put on his jacket.
• I ran into an old friend yesterday.
• She took off her shoes.
• They called off the meeting.
• She picked up the book.
• They get along well.

Practice

Let’s practice identifying phrasal verbs! Find the phrasal verbs and their meanings in each sentence below.

1. She looks after her pet cat.
2. The machine broke down suddenly.
3. He gave up on the project.
4. Can you turn off the fan?
5. She put on her hat before leaving.
6. I ran into my teacher at the store.
7. He took off his hat in respect.
8. The event was called off due to rain.
9. She picked up the phone when it rang.
10. They get along with each other.

Answers:

1. Looks after (to take care of)
2. Broke down (to stop functioning)
3. Gave up (to stop trying)
4. Turn off (to stop a machine)
5. Put on (to wear something)
6. Ran into (to meet by chance)
7. Took off (to remove something)
8. Called off (to cancel)
9. Picked up (to lift something)
10. Get along (to have a good relationship)

Conclusion

Phrasal verbs are combinations of verbs with prepositions or adverbs that create new meanings. They are common in everyday English and add expressiveness to our language. By understanding and using phrasal verbs, we can communicate more naturally and effectively.