In this article, we’ll describe what phrasal verbs are and how they function within the English language. We’ll explore their definition and provide examples that illustrate their versatility in various contexts. From casual dialogues to formal writing, phrasal verbs breathe life into our expressions and give color to our interactions. So, if you’re eager to enhance your language skills and sound more like a native speaker, join us as we unpack the fascinating world of phrasal verbs!
What Are Phrasal Verbs?
Phrasal verbs are combinations of a verb with one or more particles, which may be either prepositions or adverbs. These combinations create meanings that are frequently not obvious from the separate components. It is essential for learners to grasp the definition and examples of phrasal verbs, as they are frequently encountered in everyday spoken and written English.
Types of Phrasal verbs definition and Examples
There are generally two types of phrasal verbs:
- Transitive Phrasal Verbs: Transitive phrasal verbs are combinations of verbs and prepositions or adverbs that require a direct object to complete their meaning. She decided to give up her old habits. These structures can significantly alter the meaning of the original verb; for example, “take off” can mean to remove something when used transitively, as in He took off his jacket. Understanding transitive phrasal verbs is essential for mastering English, as they are frequently used in both spoken and written language, adding nuance and expressiveness to communication.
- Intransitive Phrasal Verbs: Intransitive phrasal verbs are a unique and essential aspect of the English language, characterized by their inability to take a direct object. These verbs often convey actions or states that do not require an object to complete their meaning. For instance, phrases like wake up, give in, and run out illustrate how the verb’s action stands alone without needing a recipient.
Transitive Phrasal verbs definition and Examples
Transitive phrasal verbs require a direct object, which refers to the nouns or pronouns that are affected by the action. These types of phrasal verbs can be either separable or inseparable.
- Separable Phrasal Verbs: You can insert the object between the verb and its particle. For example Turn off the lights or Turn the lights off.
- Inseparable Phrasal Verbs: When using these verbs, the object has to come after the entire phrase and cannot be inserted between the verb and its particle. Example: Look after the children, instead of ( Look the children after).
| Phrasal Verb | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Turn off | To stop something from working | She turned off the mobile. |
| Put on | To wear something | He put on his uniform before going. |
| Take off | To remove something | Please take off your bag. |
| Give up | To quit or stop doing something | She gave up driving last year. |
| Look after | To take care of | I’ll look after the baby tonight. |
Intransitive Phrasal verbs definition and Examples
Intransitive phrasal verbs do not need an object and usually convey actions that happen by themselves.
Here are some common examples:
| Phrasal Verb | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Break down | To stop working | My cell phone broke down yesterday. |
| Grow up | To become an adult | She grew up in a small city. |
| Show up | To appear or arrive | She showed up late to the examination hall. |
| Wake up | To stop sleeping | I woke up at 8 AM yesterday. |
| Calm down | To become relaxed | He needs to calm down after the hard work. |
Separable vs. Inseparable Phrasal Verbs: How to Use Them
Let’s analyze the distinction between separable and inseparable phrasal verbs, accompanied by examples:
Separable Phrasal Verbs
In separable phrasal verbs, you can insert the object between the verb and the particle. However, when the object is a pronoun (like it or them), it is required to be positioned between the verb and the particle.
Example:
- Turn off: Please turn off the TV or Please turn it off (but not turn off it).
Common Phrasal verbs definition and Examples in Daily Use
Phrasal verbs are commonly found in daily English conversations. The table below lists several of the most frequently used phrasal verbs, along with their definitions and example sentences.
Phrasal Verb | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Get along | To have a good relationship | They get along well with their neighbour |
| Find out | To discover or learn something | I found out the truth today. |
| Look up | To search for information | I confess I had to look up the spelling |
| Run into | To meet someone by chance | We ran into thick fog on the way home. |
| Take care of | To look after someone or something | He is home taking care of a sick child. |
Phrasal Verbs for Advanced Learners
As students progress in their English studies, they will come across encounter more complex phrasal verbs frequently utilized in professional or academic environments. Below are some advanced phrasal verbs along with examples of their usage.
| Bring up | To introduce a topic or issue | He brought up a subject rarely raised during the course of this campaign |
| Carry out | To execute or complete a task | The teachers carried out the school result. |
| Set up | To arrange or establish something | They set up a new business of shoes. |
| Look forward to | To be excited about a future event | He look forward to the new year festival. |
| Put off | To delay or postpone | They put off the project until next month. |
Phrasal Verbs vs. Single Verbs
One of the challenges for ESL students often struggle with deciding between using a phrasal verb and a single verb. Although many phrasal verbs have corresponding single verbs, the appropriate choice is determined by the context. Phrasal verbs typically appear in casual conversations, whereas single verbs are frequently found in formal writing.
| Give up | Quit | He gave up drinking. |
| Come across | Discover | She came across an old house. |
| Set up | Establish | They set up a new company. |
| Look into | Investigate | The police are looking into the case. |
Tips for Learning Phrasal Verb
Understanding phrasal verbs is easier when you see them in action rather than just trying to memorize them. Use them in everyday conversations to learn better.
Organize by Topic: Categorize phrasal verbs based on their meanings or usage, like those related to travel (e.g., set off, take off).
Make Flashcards: On one side, write the phrasal verb, and on the opposite side, include its definition along with a sample sentence.
Explore Authentic Media: Dive into movies, TV series, or podcasts to naturally encounter phrasal verbs in action.
Phrasal verbs Example Sentences
| Phrasal Verb | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Break down | The TV broke down yesterday. |
| Look after | She looks after her little sister. |
| Turn off | Please turn off the machine. |
| Run into | I ran into my old friend today. |
| Give up | He gave up drinking last year. |
| Pick up | She picked up the call quickly. |
| Put on | He put on his coat before leaving. |
| Take off | The plane took off on time. |
| Look for | I am looking for my keys. |
List of Phrasal verb in English
- Give up
- Pick up
- Put on
- Take off
- Look for
- Turn on
- Come across
- Get up
- Set up
- Bring up
- Take after
- Show up
- Work out
- Turn down
- Calm down
- Wake up
- Break down
- Look after
- Turn off
- Run into
FAQs
- What is a phrasal verb and examples?
Some common examples of phrasal verbs include look after (to take care of), run into (to unexpectedly meet someone), and turn down (to reject an offer). Phrasal verbs are widely used in everyday English, so getting familiar with them can really help you sound more natural in conversations.
- What is a phrasal verb phrase?
A phrasal verb phrase is a combination of a verb and one or more particles, usually prepositions or adverbs, that together create a meaning different from the individual words. For example, give up means to stop trying, which isn’t obvious just from looking at give and up. These combinations can be tricky for learners of English because they often don’t follow the usual rules of grammar.
- Do without phrasal verb meaning?
The phrase do without means to manage or survive without something that you might typically need or want. For example, if someone says, I can do without coffee in the morning, it implies that they don’t necessarily need coffee to function well, even though they might enjoy it. It’s a way of expressing that you can cope or get by despite the absence of something.
Conclusions
In conclusion, phrasal verbs are an essential part of everyday English that can significantly enrich your communication skills. They add depth and nuance, making your language feel more natural and conversational. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, incorporating these versatile phrases into your vocabulary will enhance both your speaking and writing. Remember to practice regularly and pay attention to how native speakers use them in context. So why not start using a few new phrasal verbs today?