Phrasal verbs are a common feature of English language and are essential for effective communication. They are combinations of a verb with a preposition or an adverb, and they often have different meanings and uses than the individual words. Here's a guide to help you understand and use phrasal verbs more confidently.

Types of Phrasal Verbs

Phrasal verbs can be categorized into three types:

  • Separable Phrasal Verbs: The object comes after the verb and the preposition. For example, put up with.
  • Inseparable Phrasal Verbs: The verb and the preposition must stay together. For example, look after.
  • Transitive Phrasal Verbs: These verbs can take an object and a preposition. For example, give up.

Examples

Here are some examples of phrasal verbs:

  • Separable:

    • Get on with something: Deal with something or progress with something.
      • "I'm trying to get on with my work."
    • Look forward to something: Expect something with pleasure.
      • "I'm looking forward to our holiday."

  • Inseparable:

    • Look after someone: Take care of someone.
      • "Can you look after the kids while I'm out?"
    • Take over something: Start managing or controlling something.
      • "He took over the company last year."

  • Transitive:

    • Give up something: Stop trying to do something.
      • "I've given up smoking."
    • Pass off something: Happen in a particular way or be treated in a particular way.
      • "The wedding passed off without any problems."

Useful Resources

For more information on phrasal verbs, you can visit our Grammar Guide.

Phrasal Verbs