Phrasal verbs are one of the most dynamic and commonly used features of the English language. They consist of a verb combined with a preposition or an adverb (sometimes both), and their meanings often differ from the individual words that form them.
As an English learner, mastering phrasal verbs is key to becoming more fluent and sounding more natural in both conversation and writing. Native speakers use them all the time—often without realizing just how confusing they can be to learners!
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through a wide range of common phrasal verbs. We’ll look at their definitions, explore how they’re structured, and examine how they function in different contexts. You’ll also find helpful examples and simple exercises to reinforce your learning.
Whether you’re just starting your English journey or looking to refine your grammar for exams, interviews, or daily use, this guide will provide the tools you need to confidently understand and use phrasal verbs in real-life situations.
Let’s get started and make phrasal verbs a strength in your English toolkit!
Table of Contents
- Definition of Phrasal Verbs
- Structural Breakdown
- Types of Phrasal Verbs
- Examples of Phrasal Verbs
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Definition of Phrasal Verbs
A phrasal verb is a combination of a verb and a particle (preposition or adverb) that creates a new meaning, often distinct from the original verb. Phrasal verbs are idiomatic, meaning their meaning cannot always be deduced from the individual words. Understanding phrasal verbs is essential for both comprehension and effective communication in English. They add depth and color to the language, making it more expressive and nuanced.
For example, the verb “look” has a simple meaning. However, when combined with the particle “up,” it becomes “look up,” which means to search for information.
This combination creates a new, distinct meaning.
Phrasal verbs can be classified based on their transitivity (whether they take an object) and separability (whether the verb and particle can be separated by the object). These classifications affect how the phrasal verbs are used in sentences.
Classification of Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs can be classified based on several characteristics:
- Transitivity: Whether they take a direct object.
- Separability: Whether the verb and particle can be separated by the object.
Transitive phrasal verbs require a direct object. For example, “pick up” is transitive because you must pick *something* up. Intransitive phrasal verbs do not take a direct object. For example, “show up” is intransitive because you simply show up, without acting upon anything.
Separable phrasal verbs allow the object to be placed between the verb and the particle. For example, “turn on the light” and “turn the light on” are both correct. Inseparable phrasal verbs do not allow the object to be placed between the verb and the particle. For example, you can say “look after the children,” but not “look the children after.”
Function of Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs serve various functions in English, adding nuance and specificity to communication. They can describe actions, states, or processes in a more vivid and concise manner than using single-word verbs.
Consider the difference between “enter” and “come in.” While both indicate movement into a place, “come in” is more conversational and inviting.
Phrasal verbs are also used to express emotions, opinions, and attitudes. For instance, “put up with” conveys a sense of tolerance or endurance, while “look down on” expresses disdain or superiority.
Understanding these subtle differences is crucial for interpreting the intended meaning of a speaker or writer.
Contexts of Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs are prevalent in everyday conversations, informal writing, and even some formal contexts. They are a natural part of spoken English and contribute to its dynamic and expressive nature.
However, it is important to be mindful of the context when using phrasal verbs, as some may be more appropriate for informal settings than formal ones.
In academic writing or professional communication, it is generally advisable to use more formal vocabulary. However, in casual conversations, emails to friends, or creative writing, phrasal verbs can add a touch of personality and authenticity.
Recognizing the appropriate context will help you use phrasal verbs effectively and avoid sounding out of place.
Structural Breakdown
The structure of a phrasal verb is quite simple: it consists of a verb and a particle. However, understanding how these components interact and how they can be arranged in a sentence is crucial for correct usage.
The particle can be either a preposition or an adverb, and its presence significantly alters the meaning of the original verb.
The arrangement of the verb, particle, and object (if any) depends on whether the phrasal verb is transitive or intransitive, and whether it is separable or inseparable.
Verb + Particle
The basic structure is Verb + Particle. The particle modifies the verb, creating a new meaning.
For example:
- Give up: To stop trying.
- Look after: To take care of.
- Turn on: To activate.
The particle is crucial to the meaning of the phrasal verb. Without it, the sentence may not make sense or may have a completely different meaning.
For example, “I gave the book” is different from “I gave up on the book.”
Transitivity and Object Placement
The transitivity of a phrasal verb determines whether it requires an object. Transitive phrasal verbs require an object, while intransitive phrasal verbs do not.
The placement of the object depends on the separability of the phrasal verb.
Transitive Separable: The object can go between the verb and particle, or after the particle.
- Turn the light on.
- Turn on the light.
Transitive Inseparable: The object must go after the particle.
- Look after the children.
- Incorrect: Look the children after.
Intransitive: No object is needed.
- Show up.
- Break down.
Pronouns as Objects
When the object of a transitive separable phrasal verb is a pronoun, it must go between the verb and the particle. This is a strict rule that must be followed to ensure grammatical correctness.
Examples:
- Turn it on. (Correct)
- Turn on it. (Incorrect)
- Pick them up. (Correct)
- Pick up them. (Incorrect)
This rule applies regardless of the pronoun used (e.g., it, them, him, her, us). Always place the pronoun between the verb and the particle.
Types of Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs can be categorized based on their function, transitivity, and separability. Understanding these categories can help you learn and use phrasal verbs more effectively.
Prepositional Phrasal Verbs
These phrasal verbs are followed by a preposition and then a noun or pronoun. They are always inseparable.
- Look after: Take care of.
- Look at: Direct your eyes towards.
- Get over: Recover from.
The preposition connects the phrasal verb to its object, indicating a relationship or direction. These phrasal verbs often describe actions involving a specific object or location.
Adverbial Phrasal Verbs
These phrasal verbs are followed by an adverbial particle. They can be either separable or inseparable, depending on the specific verb.
- Turn on: Activate (separable).
- Give up: Stop trying (inseparable).
- Come back: Return (inseparable).
The adverbial particle modifies the verb, indicating direction, intensity, or manner. These phrasal verbs often describe actions or states that are more abstract or less directly related to a specific object.
Phrasal-Prepositional Verbs
These phrasal verbs consist of a verb + adverb + preposition. They are always inseparable.
- Look forward to: Anticipate with pleasure.
- Get away with: Avoid punishment for.
- Catch up with: Reach the same level or standard as.
These phrasal verbs are often more complex in meaning and usage. They typically describe actions or situations that involve multiple elements or relationships.
Examples of Phrasal Verbs
This section provides a comprehensive list of common phrasal verbs, categorized by their main verb. Each example includes a definition and a sentence illustrating its usage.
This will help you understand the different meanings and contexts in which these phrasal verbs can be used.
Examples with “Get”
The verb “get” is used in many phrasal verbs, each with a distinct meaning. The following table provides examples of phrasal verbs using “get,” along with their definitions and example sentences.
| Phrasal Verb | Definition | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Get up | To rise from bed or a seated position | I usually get up at 7 am. |
| Get on | To enter a bus, train, or plane | We need to get on the bus quickly. |
| Get off | To leave a bus, train, or plane | She got off the train at the next station. |
| Get over | To recover from an illness or disappointment | It took me a while to get over the flu. |
| Get along (with) | To have a good relationship with someone | I get along well with my colleagues. |
| Get away | To escape | The bank robbers tried to get away with the money. |
| Get away with | Avoid being punished for something | He got away with cheating on the test. |
| Get back | To return | When will you get back from your trip? |
| Get through | To finish something; to successfully communicate | I need to get through this report by tomorrow. I couldn’t get through to him on the phone. |
| Get around | To travel to different places; to avoid something | It’s easy to get around the city by subway. They are trying to get around the new regulations. |
| Get by | To manage to survive or live | We can get by on a small budget. |
| Get into | To become interested in something; to enter | I’m really getting into painting lately. We managed to get into the concert. |
| Get out of | To avoid doing something | I tried to get out of going to the meeting. |
| Get together | To meet for social reasons | Let’s get together for coffee next week. |
| Get behind | To fail to make sufficient progress | I’m getting behind on my work. |
| Get ahead | To make progress; to be successful | You need to work hard to get ahead in this company. |
| Get across | To communicate an idea successfully | I tried to get my point across, but they didn’t understand. |
| Get down | To depress or discourage | The bad weather is getting me down. |
| Get on with | To continue doing something | I need to get on with my work. |
| Get rid of | To eliminate or throw away | I need to get rid of these old clothes. |
| Get something across | To successfully communicate an idea. | The teacher struggled to get the concept across to the students. |
| Get someone down | To make someone feel sad or depressed. | The gloomy weather always gets me down. |
| Get something over with | To finish something unpleasant. | I’m glad I finally got the exam over with. |
| Get mixed up | To become confused or disorganized. | I always get mixed up with their names. |
| Get involved in | To participate or take part in something. | She decided to get involved in the community project. |
| Get through to | To make someone understand or listen. | I tried to get through to him, but he wouldn’t listen. |
Examples with “Look”
The verb “look” is commonly used in phrasal verbs related to observation, searching, and expectations. The following table provides examples of phrasal verbs using “look,” along with their definitions and example sentences.
| Phrasal Verb | Definition | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Look at | To direct one’s eyes towards something | Look at the beautiful sunset! |
| Look after | To take care of someone or something | Can you look after my cat while I’m away? |
| Look for | To try to find something | I’m looking for my keys. |
| Look up | To search for information in a reference book or online | I need to look up the meaning of this word. |
| Look forward to | To anticipate something with pleasure | I look forward to seeing you again soon. |
| Look down on | To consider someone inferior | She looks down on people who don’t have a university degree. |
| Look up to | To admire or respect someone | I look up to my grandmother. |
| Look out | To be careful | Look out! There’s a car coming. |
| Look over | To examine or inspect quickly | Can you look over my essay before I submit it? |
| Look through | To examine or read something quickly | I looked through the magazine while waiting. |
| Look back on | To remember or reflect on the past | When I look back on my childhood, I have many fond memories. |
| Look in on | To visit someone briefly | I’ll look in on my neighbor later. |
| Look into | To investigate or examine | The police are looking into the crime. |
| Look around | To explore a place | We looked around the museum for a few hours. |
| Look ahead | To think about the future | We need to look ahead and plan for the next year. |
| Look upon | To consider or regard | I look upon him as a friend. |
| Look out for | To be vigilant and protect. | Please look out for any suspicious activity. |
| Look to | To depend on someone for support. | The team looks to the captain for leadership. |
| Look through something | To examine something quickly. | I looked through the report but didn’t find any errors. |
| Look someone up | To visit someone you haven’t seen in a while. | I’ll look you up next time I’m in town. |
| Look past | Ignore something, usually a flaw | She tried to look past his annoying habits. |
| Look to | Rely on | Many people look to their parents for advice. |
| Look alive | Be energetic, pay attention | Look alive, team! We have a lot to do. |
| Look daggers at | Give someone an angry look | She looked daggers at him after he spilled the coffee. |
| Look set to | Seem likely to happen | The project looks set to be completed on time. |
Examples with “Take”
The verb “take” appears in numerous phrasal verbs, often related to actions involving objects, responsibilities, or deception. The following table provides examples of phrasal verbs using “take,” along with their definitions and example sentences.
| Phrasal Verb | Definition | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Take off | To remove (clothing); to depart (airplane) | Please take off your shoes. The plane will take off soon. |
| Take after | To resemble a family member | He takes after his father. |
| Take care of | To look after; to protect | I take care of my younger brother. |
| Take out | To remove; to go out for entertainment | Please take out the trash. I’ll take you out for dinner. |
| Take up | To start a new hobby or activity | I want to take up painting. |
| Take on | To accept a responsibility or task | I can’t take on any more work. |
| Take over | To assume control or responsibility | The new manager will take over next week. |
| Take back | To return something; to retract a statement | I need to take back this book to the library. I take back what I said. |
| Take down | To write down; to remove | Please take down my phone number. They had to take down the old building. |
| Take in | To absorb; to deceive | The plant takes in water through its roots. Don’t be taken in by his lies. |
| Take apart | To disassemble | He took apart the machine to fix it. |
| Take away | Remove something | They took away his driver’s license. |
| Take for granted | Underestimate the value of something | We often take our health for granted. |
| Take stock of | Assess a situation | After the crisis, we need to take stock of our resources. |
| Take your time | Don’t hurry | Take your time, there’s no rush. |
| Take the blame | Accept responsibility for something wrong | He decided to take the blame for the accident. |
| Take issue with | Disagree with something | I have to take issue with your proposal. |
| Take heart | Be encouraged | Take heart, things will get better. |
| Take heed | Pay attention to advice | You should take heed of his warnings. |
| Take notice of | Pay attention to something | Few people take notice of the small details. |
| Take a fancy to | Develop a liking for | She took a fancy to the new neighbor. |
| Take charge | Assume control | He took charge of the project when the leader left. |
| Take effect | Become operative | The new law will take effect next month. |
| Take ill | Become sick | She took ill and had to miss work. |
| Take into account | Consider | We need to take into account all the factors before making a decision. |
Usage Rules
Using phrasal verbs correctly requires understanding certain grammatical rules and conventions. These rules govern the placement of objects, the separation of verb and particle, and the choice of appropriate phrasal verbs in different contexts.
Separability Rules
As mentioned earlier, some phrasal verbs are separable, while others are inseparable. Separable phrasal verbs allow the object to be placed between the verb and the particle, while inseparable phrasal verbs do not.
Separable:
- Turn on the light. / Turn the light on.
- Pick up the book. / Pick the book up.
Inseparable:
- Look after the children. (Correct)
- Look the children after. (Incorrect)
- Get over the illness. (Correct)
- Get the illness over. (Incorrect)
There’s no easy way to know if a phrasal verb is separable or inseparable. You must learn them individually.
However, a general rule of thumb is that if the particle is a preposition, the phrasal verb is usually inseparable.
Pronoun Objects Rule
When the object is a pronoun (e.g., it, him, her, them, us), it must be placed between the verb and the particle of a separable phrasal verb.
Correct:
- Turn it on.
- Pick them up.
Incorrect:
- Turn on it.
- Pick up them.
This rule applies consistently across all separable phrasal verbs and pronouns.
Intransitive Phrasal Verbs
Intransitive phrasal verbs do not take an object. Therefore, there is no object to place between the verb and the particle.
Examples:
- Show up. (The meeting started at 9 am, but he didn’t show up until 10.)
- Break down. (My car broke down on the way to work.)
- Give in. (I finally had to give in to his demands.)
Using an object with an intransitive phrasal verb will result in a grammatically incorrect sentence.
Common Mistakes
Learners often make mistakes with phrasal verbs due to their idiomatic nature and the complex rules governing their usage. This section highlights some common errors and provides correct alternatives.
Incorrect Separability
One common mistake is incorrectly separating or not separating a phrasal verb. Remember to check whether a phrasal verb is separable or inseparable and follow the rules accordingly.
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Look the baby after. | Look after the baby. | “Look after” is inseparable. |
| Turn on it. | Turn it on. | Pronouns must go between the verb and particle in separable phrasal verbs. |
| Pick up it. | Pick it up. | Pronouns must go between the verb and particle in separable phrasal verbs. |
Literal Interpretation
Another common mistake is interpreting phrasal verbs literally, rather than understanding their idiomatic meaning.
| Incorrect Interpretation | Correct Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| “Give up” means to physically hand something upwards. | “Give up” means to stop trying. | Don’t give up, you can do it! |
| “Look down on” means to physically look at something below you. | “Look down on” means to consider someone inferior. | She looks down on people who are less educated. |
Incorrect Prepositions
Using the wrong preposition with a verb can completely change the meaning of a sentence. It is vital to learn the correct preposition that accompanies each phrasal verb.
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| I’m looking to my keys. | I’m looking for my keys. | “Look for” means to search for something. |
| She gets on from her illness. | She gets over her illness. | “Get over” means to recover from something. |
Practice Exercises
These practice exercises will help you reinforce your understanding of phrasal verbs. Each exercise focuses on different aspects of phrasal verb usage, including definitions, separability, and context.
Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following sentences with the correct phrasal verb from the list below. Use each phrasal verb only once.
Phrasal Verb List: look after, get over, take off, give up, put up with, look forward to, turn on, come across, get along with, take after
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. I ________ seeing you again soon. | look forward to |
| 2. Can you ________ my dog while I’m on vacation? | look after |
| 3. I need to ________ my shoes before entering the house. | take off |
| 4. It took me a while to ________ the flu. | get over |
| 5. I don’t know how she can ________ his bad behavior. | put up with |
| 6. I ________ this old photo in the attic. | came across |
| 7. Do you ________ your colleagues? | get along with |
| 8. Please ________ the lights when you leave the room. | turn on |
| 9. He ________ his mother. | takes after |
| 10. Never ________ on your dreams. | give up |
Choose the Correct Option
Select the correct phrasal verb to complete each sentence.
| Question | Options | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1. She decided to ________ a new hobby. | (a) take on (b) take up (c) take after | (b) take up |
| 2. The company is planning to ________ a new project. | (a) take on (b) take up (c) take off | (a) take on |
| 3. The plane will ________ in a few minutes. | (a) take off (b) take on (c) take up | (a) take off |
| 4. I need to ________ my book to the library. | (a) take back (b) take down (c) take in | (a) take back |
| 5. Please ________ my phone number. | (a) take back (b) take down (c) take in | (b) take down |
| 6. The plant ________ water through its roots. | (a) take back (b) take down (c) takes in | (c) takes in |
| 7. They had to ________ the old building. | (a) take back (b) take down (c) take in | (b) take down |
| 8. They ________ his driver’s license. | (a) took off (b) took away (c) took up | (b) took away |
| 9. We often ________ our health for granted. | (a) take (b) took (c) taking | (a) take |
| 10. After the crisis, we need to ________ our resources. | (a) take stock of (b) take heed (c) take notice of | (a) take stock of |
Rewrite Sentences
Rewrite the following sentences using the phrasal verb provided, ensuring the correct word order.
| Original Sentence | Phrasal Verb | Rewritten Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Please turn off the light. | turn off | Please turn the light off. |
| I will pick up the package. | pick up | I will pick the package up. |
| She looks after her sister. | look after | She looks after her sister. |
| He takes after his dad. | take after | He takes after his dad. |
| They gave up the search. | give up | They gave the search up. |
| We made up a story. | make up | We made the story up. |
| Can you call off the meeting? | call off | Can you call the meeting off? |
| She put on her coat. | put on | She put her coat on. |
| Please fill out the form. | fill out | Please fill the form out. |
| I looked up the word. | look up | I looked the word up. |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, understanding the nuances of phrasal verbs and their variations can significantly enhance their fluency and comprehension. This section explores more complex aspects of phrasal verbs, including their idiomatic nature, regional variations, and use in specific contexts.
Idiomaticity and Figurative Language
Many phrasal verbs have idiomatic meanings that extend
beyond their literal components. These meanings often rely on cultural or contextual understanding.
Recognizing and using phrasal verbs in their idiomatic sense is a hallmark of advanced English proficiency.
For example, “break a leg” is an idiomatic expression used to wish someone good luck, particularly before a performance. It has nothing to do with actually breaking a leg.
Similarly, “hit the books” means to study hard, not to physically strike books.
Understanding the idiomaticity of phrasal verbs requires exposure to a wide range of contexts and cultural references. Reading extensively, listening to native speakers, and engaging in conversations are essential for developing this understanding.
Regional Variations
Phrasal verbs can vary in usage and meaning across different English-speaking regions. What is common in American English may be less so in British English, and vice versa.
Being aware of these regional variations can help you avoid misunderstandings and communicate more effectively in diverse settings.
For instance, “fill out” (a form) is common in American English, while “fill in” is more common in British English. Similarly, “get on” (a bus) is used in British English, whereas “get on to” or “get on” are used in American English.
These differences are subtle but can impact comprehension.
Exposure to different dialects and accents can help you become more familiar with regional variations in phrasal verb usage. Pay attention to the language used in movies, TV shows, and conversations with people from different regions.
Formal vs. Informal Usage
While phrasal verbs are common in everyday conversation, they are generally less appropriate in formal writing and professional communication. In these contexts, it is often preferable to use more formal single-word verbs that convey the same meaning.
For example, instead of saying “find out,” you could say “discover” or “ascertain.” Instead of saying “look into,” you could say “investigate” or “examine.” Choosing more formal alternatives can enhance the clarity and professionalism of your writing.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. Some phrasal verbs have become so widely accepted that they are considered appropriate even in formal contexts.
For example, “carry out” (a task) is often used in business and academic writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a phrasal verb and a prepositional verb?
A phrasal verb consists of a verb and a particle (adverb or preposition) that together create a new meaning. A prepositional verb consists of a verb followed by a preposition that governs a noun or pronoun.
The key difference is that in a phrasal verb, the particle changes the meaning of the verb, while in a prepositional verb, the preposition simply links the verb to its object.
How can I effectively learn phrasal verbs?
Learning phrasal verbs requires a combination of memorization, contextual understanding, and practice. Use flashcards, read extensively, listen to native speakers, and practice using phrasal verbs in your own writing and speaking.
Pay attention to the context in which phrasal verbs are used and try to understand their idiomatic meanings.
Are there any resources that can help me practice phrasal verbs?
Yes, there are many resources available online and in print that can help you practice phrasal verbs. Look for websites and apps that offer quizzes, exercises, and games focused on phrasal verb usage.
Additionally, grammar books and English language textbooks often include sections on phrasal verbs with practice activities.
How do I know if a phrasal verb is separable or inseparable?
Unfortunately, there is no easy way to know if a phrasal verb is separable or inseparable. You must learn them individually.
However, a general rule of thumb is that if the particle is a preposition, the phrasal verb is usually inseparable. If the particle is an adverb, it’s more likely to be separable, but not always.
Can I use phrasal verbs in formal writing?
While phrasal verbs are common in everyday conversation, they are generally less appropriate in formal writing and professional communication. In these contexts, it is often preferable to use more formal single-word verbs that convey the same meaning.
However, some phrasal verbs have become so widely accepted that they are considered appropriate even in formal contexts.
What should I do if I don’t understand a phrasal verb?
If you encounter a phrasal verb that you don’t understand, try to look it up in a dictionary or online resource. Pay attention to the context in which it is used and try to infer its meaning from the surrounding words.
If you’re still unsure, ask a native speaker or language teacher for clarification.
Why are phrasal verbs so difficult to learn?
Phrasal verbs are difficult to learn because they are idiomatic, meaning their meanings cannot always be deduced from the individual words. Additionally, they can be separable or inseparable, and their usage can vary across different regions and contexts.
Mastering phrasal verbs requires a significant investment of time and effort.
Are phrasal verbs used in other languages besides English?
While the specific structure of phrasal verbs is unique to English, many other languages have similar constructions that combine verbs with particles or prepositions to create new meanings. These constructions may not be identical to English phrasal verbs, but they serve a similar function in adding nuance and expressiveness to the language.
Is it important to master phrasal verbs to be fluent in English?
Yes, mastering phrasal verbs is crucial for achieving fluency in English. Phrasal verbs are an integral part of the language and are used extensively in everyday conversation, media, and literature.
Understanding and using phrasal verbs correctly will significantly enhance your comprehension and communication skills.
How can I improve my pronunciation of phrasal verbs?
To improve your pronunciation of phrasal verbs, pay attention to the stress patterns and intonation used by native speakers. Practice saying phrasal verbs aloud, focusing on linking the verb and particle smoothly.
You can also use online resources and pronunciation guides to help you master the correct pronunciation of specific phrasal verbs.
Conclusion
Mastering phrasal verbs is an essential step towards achieving fluency and confidence in English. By understanding their definitions, structures, and usage rules, you can effectively incorporate them into your vocabulary and communicate more naturally and expressively.
Remember to practice regularly, pay attention to context, and be mindful of common mistakes. With dedication and effort, you can unlock the full potential of phrasal verbs and enhance your overall English language skills.