Phrasal Verbs: Communication focuses on essential verb + particle combinations used in everyday communication. Mastering these will help you express ideas more naturally and effectively in English conversations, whether in meetings, casual talks, or written correspondence.
Examples
Example 1
Too weakHe mentioned the new policy in the meeting.
BetterHe brought up the new policy in the meeting.
Using "brought up" clearly indicates the introduction of a topic.
Example 2
Too weakShe searched the word in the dictionary.
BetterShe looked up the word in the dictionary.
"Looked up" is a more precise phrasal verb for searching information.
How It Works
Meaning
Phrasal verbs are combinations of verbs and particles (prepositions or adverbs) that create a meaning different from the original verb. In the context of communication, these verbs help convey specific actions or nuances in interactions, such as introducing topics or clarifying information.
For B2 level learners, mastering these phrasal verbs enhances both spoken and written communication by making expressions more natural and precise.
Use it when
- Introducing a topic in a conversation or meeting (e.g., "bring up").
- Searching for information (e.g., "look up").
- Clarifying or expanding on a point (e.g., "spell out").
- Ending a conversation or wrapping up a discussion (e.g., "wind up").
See it
Quick rules
- Learn phrasal verbs as fixed expressions for specific contexts.
- Check if the object can be placed between the verb and particle.
- Use phrasal verbs in informal and semi-formal communication settings.
- Ensure the phrasal verb fits the intended meaning and context.
Common Mistakes
Common problem 1
choosing the wrong particle with a familiar verb
WeakThe manager pointed the delay out about at the meeting.
StrongThe manager pointed out the delay at the meeting.
Fix: learn the full phrasal verb as one item
Common problem 2
placing the object in an unnatural position
WeakPlease look the timetable up before class.
StrongPlease look up the timetable before class.
Fix: check where the object belongs in the phrase
Common problem 3
using a phrasal verb without understanding its meaning
WeakThe team carried out late because of traffic.
StrongThe team carried out the safety check despite the traffic delay.
Fix: use the phrasal verb only when you know what action it describes
Practice Lab
Practice
Focus on communication-related phrasal verbs. Understand their meaning and use them in context.
Score: 0/3
Use phrasal verbs that fit naturally in communication contexts. Precision is key.
1. Quick pick
Which phrasal verb means "to start a discussion"?
2. Build it
Put the sentence in a natural order.
Arrange the chunks to form a coherent sentence.
3. Quick pick
Which phrasal verb means "to explain something in detail"?
Why It Matters
🎯 Why it matters: Mastering phrasal verbs is crucial for effective communication. They make your language sound more natural and help you convey precise meanings in conversations, enhancing both your speaking and listening skills, especially in professional and social settings.
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