Structure of Phrasal Verbs with Examples
As you are aware, a phrasal verb consists of a phrase containing two or more words: a verb along with a preposition or an adverb, or both. The preposition or adverb is referred to as a particle when it is combined with a verb. Below are two examples:
Please place the lamp on the desk.
I believe you are deceiving me.
In the first example, ‘on’ functions as a preposition indicating the location of the lamp. In the second example, ‘on’ serves as an adverbial particle. The phrase ‘put on’ is a phrasal verb that means ‘to fool’ or ‘to trick’ in this context.
A significant aspect to note is that a standard verb+preposition combination can convey two meanings. Conversely, a phrasal verb, which is a verb+particle, typically conveys a singular meaning within a sentence. Numerous phrasal verbs can possess various meanings depending on the context. However, the meaning of the verb+particle can often be articulated using a single Latin-derived verb.
Here are two sentences that convey the same meaning:
They dismantled the old building.
They razed the old building.
The verb tear possesses its own definition, as does the preposition down. They can combine with other words when used independently. However, as a phrasal verb, tear down, they convey a singular meaning: “destroy.”
In 1987, U.S. President Ronald Reagan made a visit to West Germany. He addressed a gathering in the divided city of Berlin, stating, “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!”
Separable phrasal verbs
Now for the challenging aspect. It is known that certain verbs are transitive, indicating they require a direct object. When these verbs are utilized as phrasal verbs, an object can either interrupt the phrase or follow it. Here is an illustration.
I chose to discard my old jeans.
I chose to discard my old jeans.
Both of these statements are accurate. The object of the phrasal verb throw out is jeans. You may substitute a pronoun for jeans and inquire,
Are you certain you wish to discard them?
Nevertheless, you cannot pose the question, “Are you certain you wish to throw out them?” In this case, the pronoun them must be positioned between the verb and the particle.
Identifying Common Phrasal Verbs
In recent years, linguists have started utilizing computers to analyze extensive collections, or corpora, of both written and spoken language. When researchers search for phrasal verbs, they discover that many are associated with specific activities. Additionally, they find that certain verbs can combine with multiple particles. Among the most frequently used verbs are come, put, get, go, pick, sit, and take. These verbs can pair with adverbial particles such as up, out, in, on, off, and down, forming a set of highly functional phrasal verbs.
Next, we will examine transitive phrasal verbs. Please refer to the list at the conclusion of this article. The verb get appears in numerous phrasal verbs. For instance, we use get up to signify “to awaken oneself” or “to rouse someone.” For example:
My son enjoys sleeping in. I got him up in time to catch the bus this morning.
It is important to remember that the pronoun must be placed between the verb and the adverb; therefore, we cannot say, “I got up him.”
Observe how the Norwegian band A-ha employs a separable phrasal verb in two different contexts in their song, “Take On Me.” Which usage adheres to formal grammatical standards?
I’ll be coming for your love, OK?
Take on me, (take on me)
Take me on, (take on me)
I’ll be gone
In a day or two
Try this quiz to test your understanding of phrasal verbs.
Choose the best answers to complete these sentences.
