In last week’s post we talked about the use of phrasal verbs in formal languages and how they can be used to improve your writing activities. Today we will be discussing the use of phrasal verbs in more informal writing exercises.
As we have said before, phrasal verbs are structures made up of a verb and either a preposition or an adverb which often gives the verb a different meaning to the verb. Phrasal verbs are commonly used in informal situations and so feel free to use these expressions when writing letters or emails to friends or family members to make your responses appear more natural and authentic.
Here are some examples of phrasal verbs that can be used in informal contexts:
Definition: To spend time relaxing or socializing.
Example: Let's hang out at the park this weekend.
Definition: To get up to date with someone or something.
Example: We should catch up soon; I want to hear all about your trip!
Definition: To visit someone casually or unexpectedly.
Example: Feel free to drop by my place anytime you’re in the neighbourhood.
Definition: To meet someone unexpectedly.
Example: I ran into an old friend from school at the grocery store yesterday.
Definition: To meet or gather with others socially.
Example: We’re planning to get together for dinner on Friday.
Definition: To understand or solve something.
Example: I finally figured out how to fix the TV.
Definition: To arrive or appear at a place.
Example: He didn’t show up to the party until after midnight.
Definition: To appear or be found, often unexpectedly.
Example: My keys turned up in the car after I searched the entire house.
Definition: To make a mistake or do something poorly.
Example: I really messed up the presentation by forgetting my notes.
Definition: To stop trying or quit something.
Example: I’m not going to give up on this project, no matter how hard it gets.
These phrasal verbs are commonly used in everyday, informal conversations and are perfect for casual settings.
If you want to practise using these structures in an informal context then take a look at the writing exercise in the worksheet and try to use some of the phrasal verbs from this post in your response.
In case you missed last week’s post on using phrasal verbs in formal writing exercises then give it a read to give you a complete understanding of phrasal verbs at an advanced level.
Also, if you’re interested in learning English and are looking for a course to advance your studies then check out Daway and use the promotional code BLOG20 for a 20% discount on all courses!
As we have seen in the past, phrasal verbs are often better suited to informal texts such as letters to friends or family members. However, there are some cases where they can be used in more formal contexts which is what this post will explain.
Now before going into more detail, what are phrasal verbs? A phrasal verb is a verb combined with one or more particles (usually a preposition or an adverb) that creates a meaning different from the original verb. For example, "give up" (rendirse) means to stop doing something, which is different from just "give." (dar). Using phrasal verbs in the right context can greatly help to level up your writings and help you to get a higher grade in your exams as it shows a clear and complex understanding of grammatical structures. So if you’re preparing for a more advanced level of English such as B2 or C1, then make sure you use some of these expressions:
Definition: To perform or execute (a task, duty, or process).
Example: The research team was instructed to carry out a comprehensive analysis of the data.
Definition: To cause something to happen.
Example: The new policy is expected to bring about significant changes in the company's operations.
Definition: To explain the reason or cause of something.
Example: The CFO was asked to account for the discrepancies in the financial report.
Definition: To investigate or examine the details of something.
Example: The committee will look into the allegations of misconduct before making any decisions.
Definition: To establish or arrange something.
Example: The company decided to set up a new branch in the capital to expand its market presence.
Definition: To propose or suggest something.
Example: The proposal put forward by the board was unanimously approved by the shareholders.
Definition: To examine or review something in detail.
Example: The contract will go through a thorough review before it is signed by both parties.
Definition: To accept or undertake a responsibility or task.
Example: The firm has decided to take on additional staff to manage the increased workload.
Definition: To produce or think of an idea, solution, or plan.
Example: The development team was able to come up with an innovative solution to the problem.
Definition: To reject or refuse an offer or request.
Example: The candidate turned down the job offer due to personal reasons.
These phrasal verbs are versatile and can be effectively used in formal writing, especially in professional, academic, or business contexts.
If you want to do some practice, then take a look at the worksheet for this post and try to use some of the phrasal verbs above in your response to the question.
Also make sure to read next week’s post on the use of phrasal verbs in more informal contexts to help you master the use of this structure in all situations!
Also, if you’re interested in learning English and are looking for a course to advance your studies then check out Daway and use the promotional code BLOG20 for a 20% discount on all courses!
