Phrasal Verbs in English and How They Influence Fluency

By Author Giljonnys Dias da Silva 

 

Phrasal verbs are a fundamental yet often challenging aspect of the English language, especially for non-native speakers. They consist of a main verb followed by one or more particles—typically prepositions or adverbs—that together create a meaning different from the original verb. For example, “give up” does not literally mean to give something in an upward direction; it means to quit or stop trying. These combinations are highly idiomatic and often cannot be understood simply by knowing the individual meanings of the words involved.

 

Mastering phrasal verbs is crucial for achieving fluency in English. They are everywhere: in spoken language, in informal writing, and even in formal contexts to some extent. Native speakers use them naturally and abundantly because they tend to sound more casual, direct, and expressive than their formal equivalents. For instance, native speakers are more likely to say “find out” than “discover”, or “come across” instead of “encounter.” Failing to recognize or use phrasal verbs can create a noticeable gap in comprehension and expression for English learners.

 

One of the main reasons phrasal verbs are so influential in fluency is because they reflect natural, everyday usage. Conversations, television shows, movies, podcasts, and songs are full of them. Learners who don’t understand common phrasal verbs may understand only part of what’s being said, leading to confusion or misinterpretation. Moreover, using them correctly shows a high level of command over idiomatic English and helps learners sound more natural and less formal or textbook-like.

 

Phrasal verbs can also be tricky due to their grammar. Some are separable (you can put the object between the verb and particle), like “turn off the light” or “turn the light off.” Others are inseparable, such as “look after someone,” where you cannot say “look someone after.” This grammatical nuance adds another layer of difficulty for learners.

 

To become fluent in English, it is essential not only to memorize phrasal verbs but to practice them in context. Listening to native content, reading dialogues, and using them in conversation are the best ways to internalize their meanings and correct usage.

 

List of Common Phrasal Verbs in English with Brazilian Portuguese Translations:

 

give up: desistir

 

find out: descobrir

 

turn off: desligar

 

turn on:  ligar

 

look after: cuidar de

 

get up:  levantar-se

 

wake up: acordar

 

break down: quebrar (máquina), desmoronar (pessoa)

 

make up: inventar, fazer as pazes

 

go on: continuar

 

put off: adiar

 

take off: decolar, tirar (roupa)

 

run into: encontrar por acaso

 

get along (with): dar-se bem (com)

 

check out: conferir, dar uma olhada

 

call off: cancelar

 

pick up: pegar, buscar

 

hang out: passar tempo, sair (com amigos)

 

come across: deparar-se com, encontrar

 

hold on: esperar, aguentar

 

give in: ceder

 

put up with: tolerar, aguentar

 

show up: aparecer

 

take care of: cuidar de

 

look for: procurar

 

By actively learning and using these phrasal verbs in everyday conversation, you’ll notice a significant improvement in how naturally you speak and how well you understand native English. They are a gateway to more authentic communication and a sign of true fluency in the language. 

 

Bibliographic References 

 

Carter, R., & McCarthy, M. (2006). Cambridge Grammar of English: A Comprehensive Guide. Cambridge University Press.

 

Seidl, J., & McMordie, W. (1992). English Phrasal Verbs in Use: Advanced. Cambridge University Press.

 

Oxford University Press (2020). Oxford Phrasal Verbs Dictionary for learners of English. Oxford University Press.

 

Murphy, R. (2012). English Grammar in Use: A Self-Study Reference and Practice Book for Intermediate Learners of English. Cambridge University Press.

 

Thornbury, S. (2002). How to Teach Vocabulary. Longman.