Phrasal verbs are combinations of a verb and one or more particles (prepositions, adverbs, or both) that together have a different meaning than the individual words. They are commonly used in English and can often have idiomatic or figurative meanings. Examples of phrasal verbs include "turn off," "take off," "put up with," and "get along with."
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Google Gemini AI
Jun 9
What are Phrasal Verbs?
Phrasal verbs are a combination of a verb and a preposition or adverb. They form a new meaning that is different from the original verb alone.
Meaning of Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs often have multiple meanings, but they generally fall into these categories:
1. Literal Meaning:
- The phrasal verb's meaning corresponds directly to its components. - Example: "Turn on" means to physically switch something on.
2. Figurative Meaning:
- The phrasal verb's meaning is metaphorical or figurative. - Example: "Fall apart" means to break down emotionally or physically.
3. Idiomatic Meaning:
- The phrasal verb's meaning is idiomatic and cannot be inferred from its individual components. - Example: "Give up" means to surrender or discontinue an effort.
Example Phrasal Verbs
| Phrasal Verb | Meaning | |---|---| | Ask around | Inquire from multiple people | | Break in | Force open without permission | | Call off | Cancel an event or meeting | | Check out | Depart from a place | | Come across | Encounter something unexpectedly | | Fall behind | Lag behind | | Find out | Discover or learn | | Get away with | Escape punishment | | Give up | Surrender an effort | | Hold on | Wait or retain something | | Look up | Seek information or a person | | Put off | Postpone or delay | | Turn down | Refuse an offer | | Take off | Depart rapidly | | Work out | Resolve a problem or exercise |