Fun Easy English - American English Grammar Phrasal verb.

Learning objectives

Learn the definition of a phrasal verb
Study examples of phrasal verbs
Take the test

Definition of a phrasal verb

A phrasal verb is a combination of:

a verb and a preposition
a verb and an adverb
a verb with both an adverb and a preposition

The meaning of a phrasal verb is different from the original verb
The preposition or adverb that follows the verb is called a particle and changes the meaning of the phrasal verb
Phrasal verbs can be divided into the following groups:

intransitive phrasal verb

does not take an object

inseparable phrasal verb

the object comes after the particle

separable phrasal verb

the object comes between the verb and the particle

separable phrasal verb

the object can come before or after the particle though when a pronoun is used it comes before the particle

Examples of phrasal verbs

intransitive phrasal verb - does not take an object

They had an argument, but they've made up now.

inseparable phrasal verb - the object comes after the particle

They are looking after their grandchildren.

separable phrasal verb - the object comes between the verb and the particle

The quality of their work sets them apart from their rivals.

separable phrasal verb - the object can come before or after the particle though when a pronoun is used it comes before the particle

Turn the TV off.
Turn off the TV.
Turn it off.

Test

Phrasal verbs are verbs that contain a verb and a particle which together form the unit of meaning. Study the examples below. On the test, fill in the blanks with the correct phrasal verb.

put together - this phrasal verb means to assemble
- The office manager tried to put together the new table.
think up - this phrasal verb means to create or invent
- The inventor spent the weekend trying to think up a new invention.

Do you know which phrasal verb to use in a sentence?

Fun Easy English Tests
Phrasal verb

1. He has to ________ the balloons for the party. 2. She wanted to ________ the clothes before buying them. 3. The teacher decided to ________ the exam until next week. 4. The student had to ________ all night studying. 5. Quit acting like a child. You need to ________. 6. She needs to ________ her clothes at the dry cleaners. 7. The couple decided to ________ their problems instead of ending the relationship. 8. You should ________ the old product before opening a new one. 9. If it rains, we have to ________ the game. 10. He already spent one hour trying to ________ the math problem.