Phrasal verbs are a fascinating and essential part of the English language, yet they often leave learners scratching their heads. Understanding how to use phrasal verbs in English sentences is a major milestone for any student. These unique combinations of verbs and small words—like “pick up,” “turn off,” or “run out”—carry meanings that can’t always be guessed from the individual parts.
Found everywhere from casual conversations to formal writing, English phrasal verbs add color and precision to how we express actions and ideas. In this article, we’ll unravel what phrasal verbs are, how they work, and why mastering them can transform your fluency.
What is a phrasal verb?
A phrasal verb is a multi-word verb that consists of a main verb plus a particle (a preposition or an adverb). When combined, these words function as a single semantic unit with a meaning different from the original verb.
The grammar of phrasal verbs: A list with examples and types
Phrasal verbs are categorized into four main types based on their structure and whether they require an object.
| Type | Definition | Example |
| Intransitive | Does not take a direct object. | “He gets up at 6 AM.” |
| Transitive | Requires a direct object to complete the thought. | “She filled out an application.” |
| Inseparable | The particle must stay next to the verb. | “I ran into an old friend.” |
| Separable | The object can sit between the verb and particle. | “I won’t let you down.” |
Why learn English phrasal verbs?
Mastering these expressions is the fastest way to bridge the gap between “textbook English” and “natural English.” Here is why they are crucial for your language journey:
- Natural language use: They are the “bread and butter” of native speech. Using “cancel” is fine, but “call off” sounds more natural in conversation.
- Improved communication: They convey nuances that single verbs cannot. For example, “pick up” can mean to lift an object, learn a skill, or collect a person from the airport.
- Enhanced listening skills: Since these are common in movies and TV shows, understanding them is vital for following pop culture.
- Professional communication: In business, you will frequently hear terms like “follow up,” “set up,” or “carry out.”
- Avoid misunderstandings: Misinterpreting a phrasal verb (like thinking “look up” only means to look at the ceiling) can lead to confusion in social or academic settings.
Editor’s choice: Best self-study tools
To truly master phrasal verbs, seeing them in context and practicing them daily is key. Here are the three tools I recommend most for English learners:
- English Phrasal Verbs in Use (Cambridge University Press): This is the gold standard workbook. It contains 70 units of explanations and practice exercises for approximately 1,000 phrasal verbs.
- English for Everyone: English Phrasal Verbs(DK): Best for visual learners. It uses illustrations to help you “see” the meaning of the verb, which makes them much easier to remember.
- The Ultimate Phrasal Verb Book(Carl Hart): Excellent for students preparing for the TOEFL or IELTS, as it focuses on 400 of the most common verbs used in academic and daily settings.
Common phrasal verbs by category
To help you memorize these, it is best to group them by context. Here are some of the most common phrasal verbs used in daily life. Click on the headings for an advanced look at each section and more phrasal verbs. Once you click and arrive at the new page, you’ll also see resources such as quizzes.
Phrasal verbs for emotions and feelings
- Calm down: To become more relaxed after being angry or upset.
- Cheer up: To become happier or make someone else feel better.
- Lash out: To suddenly speak or behave angrily toward someone.
Common phrasal verbs for travel and tourism
- Check in: To register at a hotel or airport.
- Get on/off: To enter or leave a bus, train, or plane.
- Set off: To start a journey.
Phrasal verbs for relationships
- Break up: To end a romantic relationship.
- Get along: To have a friendly relationship with someone.
- Make up: To forgive someone after an argument.
Phrasal verbs for everyday life
- Run out of: To have none left (e.g., “We ran out of milk”).
- Put on: To dress yourself in a piece of clothing.
- Turn off: To stop a device from functioning.
Frequently asked questions about phrasal verbs
Conclusion: Taking the next step in your fluency journey
Mastering phrasal verbs in English is more than just a grammar exercise; it’s about unlocking the ability to speak with the nuance and rhythm of a native speaker. While the sheer number of these expressions can feel overwhelming, remember that you don’t need to learn them all at once. By focusing on the categories that matter most to your daily life—whether that’s business, travel, or social settings—you’ll find that these “puzzle piece” words start to click into place.
The secret to retention isn’t just reading a list; it’s active usage. The more you “set off” on your learning journey and “check in” with your progress, the sooner these expressions will become second nature.
Be sure to click on the headings above to explore the different categories of phrasal verbs. Each post also includes helpful videos to help you learn.
Join the conversation!
We want to hear from you! Learning phrasal verbs is a community effort, and everyone has that one expression that either tripped them up or became their favorite.
- Which phrasal verb do you find the most confusing?
- Is there a specific category (like technology or health) you’d like us to cover next?
- Challenge: Try to write one sentence using a phrasal verb from this guide in the comments below, and we’ll give you feedback on your usage!
Drop a comment below—let’s practice together!
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