The Importance of Learning Phrasal Verbs

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Phrasal verbs are an important aspect of the English language. . In order to understand, speak, read and write correct English, it is important to learn them. Phrasal verbs are very frequently used in spoken and written English.

A phrasal verb is the combination of a standard verb such as make or put with one or two particles. Phrasal verbs are time and again considered as idioms because phrasal verbs don’t always make sense from the words used in the phrase In some cases the particle is an adverb such as away, together; in others it is a preposition such as through, in. Phrasal verbs are one of the most difficult aspects for learners of the English language. There are three main reasons for this:

A) In many cases the meaning of the phrasal verb cannot be deduced from its elements, i.e., it is being used idiomatically. For example: a learner who knows that ‘to tick’ is to make a checkmark may have difficulty in understanding the sentence “The teacher ticked off the student for being late”, in which the phrasal verb to tick off means to reprimand or to express disapproval.

B) Many phrasal verbs are polysemous; i.e., they have more than one meaning. The phrasal verb to put down has the literal meaning of putting something down on the table or floor. But it also has the idiomatic meanings:

* to make someone feel small, to criticize and humiliate them

* to kill as in the sentence “ I had to have my cat put down.”

* to stop, quash, put an end to as in the sentence “The police put down the riots with unnecessary brutality.”

Phrasal verbs are very important for learners because they are so prevalent in everyday spoken and written language. Not only do learners need to understand the more common phrasal verbs, but they will also need to use them themselves.

Perhaps the most effective strategy to use when learning phrasal verbs is learn them one at a time. When you read or hear a phrasal verb, note it down and check its meaning in a good dictionary. Think of phrasal verbs as synonyms, another way of saying something. Then, create an example sentence that means something to you, based on your personal life or your interests. You can do this by adapting the definition in the dictionary.

by Yvonne Ray

Phrasal Verbs Part II