Phrasal Verbs

Exercises

Explanation

Examples:

• run out of = have no more

• give up = stop doing something

• take off = remove / leave the ground (plane)

Because their meanings are not always logical, we learn them like new vocabulary.

1. Types of Phrasal Verbs

A. Intransitive phrasal verbs

They do not take an object. The action ends with the subject.

Examples:

• The plane took off at 7 a.m.

• He woke up very early today.

• Many people showed up late to the meeting.

These cannot have a direct object after them.

B. Transitive phrasal verbs

They need an object.

Examples:

• We need to figure out the answer.

• She turned down the offer.

• I picked up my package from the shop.

These verbs act on something or someone.

2. Separable and Inseparable Verbs

Some transitive phrasal verbs allow the particle to move. Others do not.

A. Inseparable phrasal verbs

The particle must stay together with the verb.

Examples:

• We ran into an old friend yesterday.

• She looks after her little brother.

• I’m dealing with a difficult situation.

You cannot separate them.

B. Separable phrasal verbs

The particle can go before or after the object.

Examples:

• Please turn off the lights.

• Please turn the lights off.

BUT when the object is a pronoun, separation is required:

• Turn it off.

• Pick them up.

Incorrect: Turn off them.

3. Phrasal verbs with more than one meaning

Many phrasal verbs change meaning depending on context.

Examples:

• break down

• The car broke down. (stopped working)

• He broke down in tears. (lost control of emotions)

• take off

• The plane took off. (left the ground)

• She took off her coat. (removed)

4. Examples in short sentences

• We need to catch up soon!

• He gave up smoking last year.

• I came across a great video online.

• They set off early in the morning.

• Can you fill in this form?