Look out! Prepositions are difficult enough...but phrasal verbs make them even more challenging.
What is a phrasal verb?
The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines one as: : "a phrase (as take off or look down on) that combines a verb with a preposition or adverb or both and that functions as a verb whose meaning is different from the combined meanings of the individual words."
(They are the verbs+preposition combinations that don't translate well and tend to confuse non-native English speakers.)
I can't FIGURE THESE OUT! How do they work? FIND OUT here:
- For a good explanation of the grammar and structure of phrasal verbs, visit this English Page explanation.
- And for our native English-speaker friends- or those who are very curious about the advanced workings of phrasal verbs- visit this very thorough explanation from Wikipedia
What are some examples?
- For a long list, visit this page from English Club
- Or this one from Capital Community College
- Or this "Extensive List of Phrasal Verbs"
- Or visit this online dictionary of phrasal verbs to find the meaning of one that you COME ACROSS: Using English
Need more information and practice? CHECK OUT one of these sites for activities and info:
- More practice activities with English Pages
- Here is a list of 21 exercises from Agenda Web
- 10 more exercises from ESL Student Lounge
- Lists and 15 practice activities from ego4 (Please note: some of the pages linked on this are in another language)
Looking for a quick quiz to test your skills? FIND OUT how you are doing!
- Try this one from A4ESL
- A short quiz from British Council (bottom of the page)
- Or this one (which has 67 questions, so maybe is not "quick")
- Or try this British Stuff one (note* some of these may not be American expressions!)
- Three shorts ones- but NOT multiple choice (a challenge!)
- Another challenging one here
Are you ready to KEEP ON studying? For more practice and study:
Visit this quizlet page for a whole list of flashcard sets and games to help you with Phrasal Verbs.
