Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs are verbs that take on a new meaning by the addition of a particle (usually a preposition or an adverb).
Phrasal verbs can be challenging because they take a common verb (which we usually know the meaning of) and, because of the attached particle, create a new definition for the verb. In addition, many phrasal verbs are similar or have multiple definitions.
Phrasal verbs can be grouped into two main categories:
Transitive
requires a direct object
(separable or inseparable)
Intransitive
does not require a direct object
(inseparable)
Transitive phrasal verbs are grouped into two categories:
Separable
direct object is placed in the middle of or after the phrasal verb
Inseparable
direct object is placed after the phrasal verb
If the direct object is a pronoun, it must be placed in the middle of the phrasal verb.
Unfortunately, there are no rules to help us determine the type of each phrasal verb. Phrasal verbs are best learned in context with appropriate examples.
*remember: when conjugating phrasal verbs, only change the verb - not the particle (refer to lesson 4)
Transitive Phrasal verbs
to set up
to install or assemble something new; to start something new
After college, Sofia set up her own software company.
to hack into
to enter something illegally
The news announced that someone had hacked into some top-secret government data.
to plug in
to put a cord into an electrical port or outlet
Where can I plug in the printer?
to print out
to copy something using a printer
Please print out copies of the agenda before the meeting starts.
to turn/power on
to provide power to a machine
I power on my computer every morning when I arrive at work.
to turn/power off
to disconnect power from a machine
I always turn off my computer when I am finished working.
inTransitive Phrasal verbs
to pop up
to appear
If you click on the icon, a list of options will pop up.
to sign up
to create an account or register for something
The new course starts next week so be sure to sign up.
to scroll up/down
to move to the top or bottom of a page
I had to scroll down to read the rest of the story.
to log/sign in/on
to connect to an account using a username and password
Do not forget your password - you will need it to log in to your email account.
to log/sign off/out
to disconnect from an account
I did not sign out of my session yesterday.
Reflection
Describe the following situations using a phrasal verb from the lesson.