Phrasal verbs

A phrasal verb consists of a verb and a preposition and/or adverb. They are used together to create a new meaning which is often very different from that of the original verb.

Some phrasal verbs:

To draw up – meaning to prepare a document in writing

Example:

• The lawyer drew up a formal contract

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To go in for – meaning to have an interest in something or to take part in something

Example:

• She’s always going in for competitions

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To make up for – meaning to do something to compensate for something else

Example:

• He made up for his lateness by working very hard

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To see through – meaning not to be fooled by someone’s appearance or to continue with something until it is finished

Examples:

• He always appeared kind and thoughtful, but she saw through him and knew that he was only after her money.
• The job was very difficult, but they saw it through until it was finished.

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To ring back – meaning to return or repeat a telephone call

Example:

• The line is busy so I will ring back later.

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To let off – meaning to release something or not to punish someone.

Examples:

• The saucepan let off a delicious smell.
• The police officer let him off with a warning.

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To hang on to – meaning to keep

Example:

• I’ve hung on to that picture for many years.

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Some people say there is a difference between “phrasal verbs” and “prepositional verbs”. You can be a very fluent speaker and writer of English without everknowing anything about this difference, but if you are interested you can find out more at:https://grahamsgrammar.com/prepositional-verbs/ /