30.20. Common Phrasal Verbs: Understanding Contextual Meaning of Phrasal Verbs

Phrasal verbs are an essential part of the English language, especially for those aiming to reach an intermediate level of proficiency. These verbs consist of a main verb combined with one or more particles, typically prepositions or adverbs, which together create a meaning distinct from the original verb. Understanding phrasal verbs can be challenging due to their idiomatic nature, meaning that their meanings are not always predictable based on the individual words. However, mastering them is crucial for effective communication and comprehension in English.

To truly grasp the contextual meaning of phrasal verbs, it is important to consider the context in which they are used. Contextual clues often provide hints about the meaning of a phrasal verb, helping learners deduce its meaning even if they have not encountered it before. In this text, we will explore some common phrasal verbs, their meanings, and how they can be understood within different contexts.

1. Look Up

The phrasal verb "look up" can have multiple meanings depending on the context:

• To search for information: When you "look up" something, you search for information about it, usually in a book, dictionary, or online. For example: "I need to look up the definition of this word in the dictionary."
• To improve: It can also mean that things are improving or getting better. For instance: "After a difficult year, things are finally starting to look up."

2. Break Down

"Break down" is another versatile phrasal verb with several meanings:

• To stop functioning: When a machine or vehicle stops working, it is said to "break down." Example: "My car broke down on the way to work."
• To analyze in detail: It can also mean to separate something into parts for better understanding. For example: "Let's break down this problem to understand it better."
• To lose emotional control: When someone becomes very upset, they might "break down." Example: "She broke down in tears after hearing the news."

3. Come Across

"Come across" typically means to find or meet by chance:

• To encounter unexpectedly: This phrasal verb is often used when you find something or someone by accident. For example: "I came across an old friend while walking in the park."
• To make an impression: It can also refer to the impression someone gives. Example: "He comes across as very confident in interviews."

4. Give Up

This phrasal verb is used in contexts where someone stops trying or surrenders:

• To quit: "Give up" means to stop trying to do something. Example: "After several failed attempts, she decided to give up on the project."
• To surrender: It can also mean to stop resisting and surrender. For example: "The soldiers were forced to give up after being surrounded."

5. Put Off

"Put off" is commonly used to describe delaying actions:

• To postpone: This means to delay something to a later time. Example: "We had to put off the meeting until next week due to scheduling conflicts."
• To discourage: It can also mean to discourage someone from doing something. For instance: "The bad weather put me off going for a walk."

6. Run Into

This phrasal verb is often used when encountering someone or something unexpectedly:

• To meet by chance: "Run into" is used when you unexpectedly meet someone. Example: "I ran into my old teacher at the supermarket."
• To encounter difficulties: It can also mean to experience problems. For instance: "We ran into some issues with the new software."

7. Take Off

"Take off" is used in various contexts, often related to removing or starting:

• To remove: This can mean to remove clothing or accessories. Example: "Please take off your shoes before entering the house."
• To become successful: It can also mean to become successful or popular quickly. For instance: "Her career really took off after the release of her first album."
• To leave the ground: In aviation, it refers to an aircraft leaving the ground. Example: "The plane took off on time."

8. Turn Down

"Turn down" is often used when rejecting or reducing something:

• To reject: This means to refuse an offer or request. Example: "She turned down the job offer because it didn't meet her salary expectations."
• To reduce volume or intensity: It can also mean to lower the volume or intensity of something. For example: "Could you turn down the music? It's too loud."

9. Work Out

This phrasal verb is commonly used in contexts related to physical exercise or problem-solving:

• To exercise: "Work out" often refers to physical exercise. Example: "I try to work out at the gym three times a week."
• To solve a problem: It can also mean to find a solution to a problem. For instance: "We need to work out the details of the contract."
• To have a successful result: It can mean that things turn out well. Example: "I hope everything works out for you in your new job."

10. Get Over

"Get over" is used when recovering from something:

• To recover from an illness or setback: This means to recover from something, such as an illness or disappointment. Example: "It took her a few weeks to get over the flu."
• To overcome an obstacle: It can also mean to overcome a problem or difficulty. For instance: "He finally got over his fear of public speaking."

Learning phrasal verbs involves not just memorizing their meanings, but also understanding how they function within sentences. Practice is key. Try to use them in sentences, notice them in conversations, and pay attention to the context in which they appear. Over time, this will enhance your ability to understand and use phrasal verbs effectively, making your English more natural and fluent.

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