Getting Into It
Phrasal Verb Basics
Phrasal verbs are generally two or three words verb phrases composed of a verb and one or more particles - these 'particles' are often prepositions. Phrasal verbs are especially challenging to English learners because they may be literal in meaning:
I picked up the pen.
or they may be figurative in meaning:
They brought up their children in London.
Here is a short list some common phrasal verbs:
pick up
go out
set off
put down
come up with
drop in on
get into
drive off
get ready for
bring about
Example:
Peter let the adjustable rate preferred stock get sold on Tuesday.
Timothy looked after the majority interest
This company will put up a record of their assets and liabilities for review.
Phrasal Verbs Followed by the 'ing'
One problem in English that can cause a lot of confusion is whether a verb following another verb takes the 'ing' form or takes the infinitive.
For example:
I hope to do something.
I enjoy doing something.
Phrasal verbs generally end in a preposition. Prepositions always take the 'ing' form of the verb. For this reason, any verb combined with a phrasal verb takes the 'ing' form of the verb.
Example:
The bank manager looked into reducing the borrowing rate of customers.
I concentrated on getting the bank transfer order.
Three Word Phrasal Verbs
Here is a list of some of the most important three word phrasal verbs:
catch up on
come up with
go along with
cut down on
keep up with
come down with
check up on
get along with
get on with
look forward to
send off for
Example:
That building keeps track of all the currency in circulation.
I look forward to updating our spreadsheet.