“I’ll never understand phrasal verbs.”
“They’re impossible.”
“There are so many. Where do I even start!?”
If you’ve ever said anything like this, I see you. The frustration is real, my English-learning pals. Let’s change that mindset, though, shall we? 😉
Here’s the first thing I want you to remember:
👉 Phrasal verbs are just verbs
They’re not some part of English sent down from another planet. 🪐 They’re just another way to say things you already know.
Think of phrasal verbs like synonyms for verbs … with a twist (a preposition or two).
You know how big, large, and, huge all mean the same thing?
Same idea here. Find their twin verb:
👽 continue = carry on
👽 arrive = show up
👽 wait = hold on
They’re all just verbs. And if you’ve spent years learning English (which I know you have), you’ve learned and used so many verbs by now. So, I know you can definitely pick up these too!
(Yes! “pick up” means “learn”. See? You just used a phrasal verb!)
But how do you do it?
Try this:
Start with one category: phrasal verbs for work, daily life, or a casual chat with a friend. (Or maybe you’re in the mood for some weirder ones. I’ve got a list here for those too.)
Pick just a few verbs from the list to focus on. There are 10 to 20 verbs in each list.
Look at their definition and find a synonym. Use that as your anchor to remind you of your new phrasal verb.
Finally, you get to know them by using them. Write them. Say them. Notice them in books and TV shows. You can even try them in class with me.
If you’re in Voice Message Speaking Practice, you can try them in your weekly responses. I’ll let you know if they’re working the way you want. (Spoiler alert: They probably are. 😏)
And before you ask, NO! You don’t need to learn a million phrasal verbs today. LOL
Just focus on one, ok? Get comfortable with it. Then add another. And another after that.
Give yourself time. That way, you skip the frustration and go straight to enjoying phrasal verbs in action.
Already know a phrasal verb? Great! You’re a step ahead of the game.
Now think of a regular verb that means the same thing. And be sure to use both in conversations so they stay fresh in your mind.
Want to use your new phrasal verb in a conversation with me? Come join Voice Message Speaking Practice. Where together we make space for you to practice and progress, one audio message at a time.
P.S. Share this post with an English-learning friend and challenge each other to try out one new phrasal verb this week!
