[one_second]Let’s start with  a quick introduction to Phrasal verbs. Phrasal verbs are idiomatic phrases that comprise a verb plus another element, for example an adverb or preposition. The meaning of the phrasal verb can not be deduced by understanding the elements in isolation. It is essential for advanced English speakers to understand phrasal verbs in order to enhance their communication skills and avoid miscommunication. Using and understanding Phrasal verbs make you seem like a fluent English speaker!

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Learning tip:

Don’t think of Phrasal verbs as merely a list of words that you should memorize. No one’s going to quiz you on them! Try to get a general sense of the meanings and try to identify them when you hear them in conversations. And slowly, try to incorporate them when you speak in English. This language immersion approach to learning English will allow you to add these phrasal verbs permanantly in to your vocabulary.

The list below explains 10 common phrasal verbs ESL students must know. See how many of these you know.

 

1.) Call it off

 

To stop or cancel something. For example, “We will call off the wedding if we can’t agree on the details”.

 

2.) Give in

 

To concede defeat, in relation to people or activities. For example, “Jack was tired of arguing with Jill so he eventually said “I give in” and that ended the argument”.

 

3.) Keep up (with something)

 

Can be used literally, i.e. maintaining the same pace as something or figuratively, i.e. maintaining adequate knowledge about something. For example, “Keep up or you’ll get lost in the crowd” or “As the head science teacher Mr Brown must keep up with the latest scientific research”.

 

4.) Look up (to someone)

 

Admire and respect a person. For example, “John looks up to his uncle and regularly asks for his opinion and advice”.

 

5.) Chip in

 

To help or give assistance. For example, “I’ll chip in so that the kitchen can be cleaned quicker” or “If everyone chips in the project will be easier to complete.”

 

6.) Working something out

 

Finding a solution to a problem or familiarising yourself with a new concept. For example “Jane is working out how to use all the features on her new mobile phone”.

 

7.) Look something up

 

To research information about a topic. For example, “I need to look up that word, I don’t understand it” or “I need to look up how to get to Smith Street because I’ve never been then before”

 

8.) Get along

 

To have a good relationship with someone. For example, “I get along with my neighbour; we talk to each other every day”.

 

9.) Grow into

 

To develop, change or mature; either physically or mentally. For example, “Peter has grown into his role at work, he is a lot more confident” or “The baby has grown into her winter coat, it used to be much too large for her”.

 

10.) Go ahead

 

To start something, can aslo suggest giving permission. For example, “I’m going to go ahead and cook dinner” or “The boss gave the go ahead on Peter’s big project”.

Phrasal verbs are an important part of the English language and understanding them will help English language learners communicate as native speakers. Are you ready to learn Phrasal Verbs today?