What is a phrasal verb?

It's the combination of a verb + a particle (preposition or adverb) resulting in a new word. The new unit is different from the two separate words. Examples

She's looking after the kids I've decided to give up smoking. What will she say when she finds out?

Phrasal verbs are very common in spoken and written English so we need them to understand and speak natural English. If you're in a hurry to learn just a few verbs, take a look at our phrasal verb list.

Common phrasal verb: Phrasal Verb Look for Make up Set off Break down Dress up Find out Get away Get into

Meaning